Museveni Orders Probe into Shs231 Billion Veterans’ Gratuity Amid Accountability Concerns

President Museveni has ordered an investigation into the alleged mismanagement of Shs231 billion meant for veterans’ gratuity, citing concerns over corruption, ghost beneficiaries, and delays affecting rightful recipients.

President Yoweri Museveni has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the management and distribution of Shs231 billion set aside as Akasiimo (ex-gratia gratuity) for military veterans.

Speaking at State Lodge Nakasero during Heroes’ Day celebrations, Museveni said the funds were officially approved as a gesture of appreciation for veterans of the National Resistance Army (NRA) and other liberation forces that brought the current government to power in 1986. Although the Treasury has consistently released the money over several financial years, he noted a mismatch between records and reality, with many elderly veterans reportedly still without their entitlements.

The celebrations, held under the theme of honoring Uganda’s liberation fighters, shifted into a strong call for accountability. Museveni expressed concern over reports of corruption, “ghost” beneficiaries, and administrative delays within the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, questioning the disappearance of funds meant for veterans. “The money was released to ensure our veterans live a life of dignity, not to enrich a few individuals in offices,” he said, adding that a full probe would establish how the funds were utilized.

Beyond financial accountability, the President also pointed to rising costs of medical care for veterans, saying inefficiencies were straining public resources. He noted that while the government continues to support veterans’ treatment in private hospitals, this approach is costly and unsustainable. He suggested that better use of facilities such as Entebbe Hospital could help reduce expenses and improve service delivery.

Museveni further used the occasion to reflect on Uganda’s post-1986 progress, highlighting achievements in areas such as security, infrastructure, education, and the economy. However, he emphasized that macroeconomic growth has not fully translated into improved livelihoods for all citizens. He reiterated the importance of wealth creation initiatives like the Parish Development Model, arguing that the remaining challenge is ensuring that more Ugandans have sufficient income at the household level.