By; Francis Lubega

Electoral Commission (EC) has dismissed allegations that Ministry of Finance already allocated to them UGX10 Billion in the ending financial year meant to prepare for the LC1 elections.

Last week, the Minister of Local Government Tom Butime informed Members of Parliament on the Local Government Committee that government had already allocated 10bn to the commission and the remaining balance of 5bn will be allocated in 2017/18 EC financial year budget for commencement of the elections.

However, MPs on the Parliamentary Legal Committee were surprised to be told by the Chairperson of E.C Justice Simon Byabakama that no money has ever been given to them to prepare for LC1 elections but assured that the required UGX 15 Billion has been allocated and finance ministry has assured to release it in the coming financial year.

Justice Byabakama informed Mps that there are unfunded activities which may legally cost EC if not addressed.

Among them included un-funding of elections of six newly gazette districts soon to start in July this year, Administrative costs at district levels, vote education, National consultative forum and others.

Byabakama also appealed to the committee to consider increasing the salaries of EC officials which has remained constant for 18 years visa vie the high costs of living sighting an example of the commissioner of EC earns UGX 800,000 shillings


Wednesday 26th April 2017 06:43:05 AM