The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has been embroiled in a bribery scandal, with allegations refusing to dissipate. In 2022, a group of MPs was tasked with investigating the state of affairs at the UCAA, including multi-billion projects aimed at transforming Entebbe into a world-class international airport. However, their inquiry was allegedly compromised when they discovered irregularities and were subsequently bribed to conceal their findings.
The bribe, reportedly ranging between sh1.7 billion, was allegedly paid in two installments, with sh1.4 billion paid initially and sh300 million later.
Although fingers were initially pointed at UCAA officials, investigations have revealed that the bribe may have been paid by a contractor working on the airport’s renovation and expansion project.
A well-placed source has revealed to this publication of TV10GanoMazima that security agencies are taking a keen interest in the matter, and while there is no concrete evidence yet, an audio recording of the bribe negotiation has surfaced. Investigators are working to establish the authenticity of the recording before taking action.
This scandal has cast a shadow over the UCAA’s efforts to upgrade Entebbe airport, raising questions about the integrity of the project and the individuals involved.
The alleged bribe has also sparked concerns about the ability of MPs to conduct impartial investigations, particularly when large sums of money are involved.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the allegations will be substantiated and what consequences will be faced by those involved.
One thing is certain, however – the reputation of the UCAA and the integrity of Uganda’s institutions hang in the balance.
