Muwada Nkunyingi

Muwada Nkunyingi, the representative for Kyadondo East County, is advocating for the censure of Uganda’s foreign affairs ministers, Jeje Odongo and Henry Okello Oryem. Nkunyingi has accused them of causing diplomatic embarrassment and financial strain on the country. He argues that their actions are particularly concerning given Uganda’s current economic challenges.

Nkunyingi, who also serves as the shadow foreign affairs minister, revealed that he and fellow Members of Parliament have prepared a motion of censure against the ministers. They intend to present it in Parliament once legislative sessions resume, as Parliament is currently in recess.

The controversy centers around the foreign affairs ministry’s decision to send over 70 individuals to represent Uganda at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Nkunyingi conducted an investigation into the delegation, including the selection process and other related matters. Based on his findings, he is determined to move a motion of censure against all ministers in the foreign affairs ministry.

Nkunyingi expressed his astonishment at the situation, particularly the role of Minister Henry Okello Oryem, who has significant experience in the ministry. He raised questions about the inclusion of Okello Oryem’s spouse among those accredited to represent Uganda and emphasized that such actions should have been guided against by experienced ministry officials.

The legislator held a press conference on Thursday, September 21, following the emergence of a list containing 71 members who were cleared to attend the UNGA. He argued that the extensive delegation was unwarranted and reflected poorly on Uganda diplomatically. Nkunyingi also criticized the wasteful use of government resources, which he believes could have been allocated more effectively.

Nkunyingi further pointed out that despite these expenditures, the foreign affairs ministry and the Ugandan government have not taken action to assist thousands of Ugandan nationals detained in various countries, including Turkey and Saudi Arabia, or those facing difficulties abroad.

The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, September 26.