The corridors of Uganda’s Parliament are buzzing with tension following reports that a luxury Rolls-Royce Cullinan, valued at approximately Shs 3.5 billion to Shs 4 billion, has been cleared for the office of the Speaker. The arrival of the ultra-luxury SUV has ignited a fierce political storm, pitting incumbent Speaker Anita Among against tax authorities and political rivals as the race for the 12th Parliament leadership heats up.
The Tax Standoff and Presidential Intervention
The 2025-model vehicle was reportedly airlifted into the country from the United Kingdom. However, its release from customs was delayed by a high-stakes standoff over tax obligations. Sources indicate that Speaker Anita Among initially resisted paying the required taxes—estimated at over Shs 1.2 billion—allegedly arguing that her significant efforts to maintain the current administration’s political stability should exempt the vehicle.
The deadlock reportedly required the personal intervention of President Yoweri Museveni, who paved the way for the vehicle's clearance. It is understood that an arrangement has now been made for the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to receive the tax payments in installments.
A "Birthday Gift" or Official Asset?
During a conference call with URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi Rujoki, Speaker Among reportedly confirmed ownership of the Rolls-Royce but dismissed the controversy as a smear campaign by her detractors. She reportedly claimed the vehicle was a birthday gift, though critics have been quick to point out that her official birthday does not fall until November.
The procurement has drawn sharp criticism given the current economic climate. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is a symbol of global elite status, typically reserved for royalty and billionaires, making its addition to the parliamentary fleet a flashpoint for public debate on government spending.
Impact on the 12th Parliament Speakership Race
The timing of the vehicle’s arrival is politically sensitive. As the 12th Parliament approaches, the race for the Speaker’s chair is tightening. While Anita Among remains a frontrunner, she faces competition from:
Norbert Mao: The Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister, who has vowed to stay in the race despite pressure to step down.
Persis Namuganza: The NRM-leaning legislator who has reaffirmed her bid for the seat.
Mao has been vocal about the latest developments, suggesting it may be time for the ruling party to "cut off" the incumbent following the luxury car revelations.
Political Maneuvering and Opposition "Sneaking"
Beyond the luxury car saga, reports have emerged regarding Among’s strategic efforts to weaken the opposition. It is alleged that she has played a central role in "sneaking" opposition members into meetings at State House to broker deals and reduce hostility toward the government. While many have reportedly taken the bait, high-profile figures like Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) of the National Unity Platform and Dr. Kizza Besigye have notably rejected such overtures.
As the Shs 4 billion SUV officially enters the government fleet, the debate remains: is this a necessary tool for the prestige of the office, or a symbol of excess that will cost the incumbent her seat in the upcoming elections?
