Teso Elders Ask Museveni to Ensure Fairness in Anita Among Probe

Elders from the Teso sub-region have appealed to President Museveni to ensure fairness in the ongoing investigations involving former Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, urging that the process be conducted without political interference.

In a statement dated May 28 under the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), the elders expressed support for accountability and the work of government agencies but warned against what they described as increasing political pressure and public judgment before investigations are concluded.

The statement, signed by Mr Alloch William Akoll, a senior advisor on ICU affairs, called on investigators to uphold the rule of law, transparency, and the constitutional principle that every person is innocent until proven guilty.

“We call for respect for the rule of law and a fair hearing during the investigations. While we recognize the mandate of state institutions to promote accountability, these processes must be conducted with fairness and full respect for the principle of innocence until proven guilty,” he said.

Describing themselves as non-partisan, the elders also urged President Museveni to address the matter with impartiality and wisdom.

“We respectfully appeal to the national leadership, especially President Museveni, whose judgment we have long trusted, to handle these issues as a statesman, elder, and father, ensuring that political differences are resolved through dialogue, consensus, and respect for regional representation,” the statement said.

Their appeal comes as investigations continue into allegations of illicit enrichment, corruption, and abuse of office involving Ms Among, Speaker of the 11th Parliament.

The elders also questioned actions reportedly taken against her before the investigations are completed, including the freezing of assets and restrictions on movement.

“We further appeal that measures such as asset freezes, movement restrictions, and the apparent political isolation of a senior national leader while investigations are ongoing be carefully managed to avoid creating public prejudice that could affect the credibility of the process and its outcome,” the statement added.

Since May 16, joint security teams comprising detectives from the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), anti-corruption agencies, and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have been investigating the allegations. Searches have been conducted at properties linked to Ms Among in Kampala, Wakiso, and Bukedea districts.

Among the items reportedly seized were several luxury vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce Cullinan valued at about Shs3.4 billion, a Mercedes-Maybach, and a Range Rover.Mr Akoll said the elders remain ready to engage state institutions through dialogue and peaceful means to ensure justice is achieved without escalating political tensions.

They also highlighted Ms Among’s contributions to development in Teso and other parts of the country, arguing that her record of philanthropy and community support should be considered. Among the projects cited were the donation of medical equipment worth Shs600 million to Bukedea Health Centre IV in 2022 and tractors valued at Shs300 million to farmers in Kidongole Sub-county, Bukedea District.

The elders said they would continue monitoring the situation closely and stand in solidarity with Ms Among while supporting a peaceful environment for lawful investigations. They reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful, just, and equitable Uganda where leaders from all regions are treated with respect.