Opposition vows to probe Shs463 billion Umeme buyout deal
Leader of Opposition in Parliament Joel Ssenyonyi speaking at the presentation of the Opposition Alternative Budget Priority Areas at Parliament on March 31, 2025. Photo/Busein Samilu
What you need to know:
- Former Umeme customers were advised to look for “UEDCL Light” on telecom payment menus, replacing the familiar “Yaka” system.
The Leader of Opposition in Parliament (LoP), Mr Joel Ssenyonyi, has pledged to lead a section of like-minded colleagues, including members from the opposition, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), and independents, to scrutinise the $118 million (Shs463 billion) Umeme Ltd buyout recommended by the Auditor General (AG)’s report.
Speaking at the presentation of the Opposition Alternative Budget Priority Areas at Parliament on March 31, Mr Ssenyonyi described the controversy surrounding the Umeme buyout as "organised theft."
“Umeme presented a buyout amount of $234 million (Shs853 billion), the government presented $190 million (Shs700 billion), while the Auditor General finally approved $118 million (Shs463 billion). The presiding officer stopped us from debating it and asked Parliament to pass it. Of course, we refused, but our colleagues from the other side said ‘yea’, and the Ayes had it,” Mr Ssenyonyi said.
He insisted that Parliament has a duty to scrutinise and understand the basis of the Auditor General’s audit, emphasizing that it is crucial for the country to know what exactly was bought out.
“Some people wanted to make away with taxpayers’ money, and this time, we want to ensure that we scrutinise the AG’s report,” he added.
Umeme hands over power distribution to UEDCL
This development comes as Umeme Ltd’s 20-year power distribution concession officially ended on March 31. The company has handed over electricity distribution operations to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (UEDCL).
During the handover ceremony, Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa reiterated the government’s commitment to improving service delivery, reducing electricity tariffs, and expanding electrification across the country.
“The transition to UEDCL is part of our broader strategy to enhance efficiency, accountability, and affordability in electricity distribution. We appreciate Umeme’s contributions over the years, and we are now ready to take the next step in developing Uganda’s energy sector,” Ms Nankabirwa said.
She further confirmed that Umeme’s assets have been officially transferred to UEDCL to ensure a smooth transition.
Former Umeme customers were advised to look for “UEDCL Light” on telecom payment menus, replacing the familiar “Yaka” system.
Umeme board chair speaks out
Mr Patrick Bitature, the Chairperson of the Board of Umeme Ltd, expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s buyout offer, stating:
“This is not what we expected.”
Meanwhile, Ms Nankabirwa announced that starting April 1, the Auditor General will meet with the government and Umeme to harmonize efforts. The AG’s report revealed that the buyout amount is not final, as Umeme is still completing ongoing work.
