Oyam South MP Amongi faces criticism for “neglect of duty”

Lira |Even before she announced her decision to shift her political ambitions to Lira City from Oyam South, MP Betty Amongi was being accused of “neglect of duty” and failing to return to her constituency whenever she was elected.

Others claim that she is the primary beneficiary of any donations she sends to help her constituents. These constituents claim that she has indirectly charged them for hoes, gomesi, and solar lights through her political proxies.

Amongi, who also serves as minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, returned to the constituency early in January to say “good bye.”

Dozens of constituents, the majority of whom say they have been sending her to parliament, remain outraged by her actions to tell them “good bye” amids no clear accountability.

She has been the Oyam South MP since 2011, having previously served as a woman MP of Apac district.

Due to her lengthy political career and desire to switch constituencies (from Apac to Oyam South and now to Lira City), Amongi is now referred to by many in Lango as a “political doctor.”

Cries vs petition

Last Sunday, a group of local politicians from different parts of Oyam South held a press conference in Lira City, accusing their MP of neglect.

They stated that they were preparing to petition the Speaker of Parliament about their MP’s neglect and absenteeism from the constituency.

Charles Opio, a voter and businessman from Aber sub-county, accused Amongi of failing to fulfill her responsibilities, resulting in more than two years of stagnant development.

Opio stated that as concerned citizens and voters in Oyam South, they cannot remain inactive while the problems persist.

“I want to make this statement very clear: whether Amongi likes it or not, she must provide us with a credible account of how she has mismanaged government funds allocated for development, which amounts to shs25 million monthly for MPs.”

These leaders and a few voters are urging the government to hold a by-election in Oyam South within the next 18 months to fill the vacancy left by MP Amongi, even though it is not practical.

A by-election in Uganda can be held for a variety of reasons, including the death of an MP or his or her resignation.

David Odoc, a youth councilor representing the youth of Myene sub-county, stated that the Lira City announcement made by their Member of Parliament has caused significant concern among Oyam South voters.

“This situation has left us deeply disappointed, especially since Minister Amongi confirmed her move to Lira City.”

Fred Obuku, a Loro town council voter, has thanked Amongi for being open about her decision to “step down” as MP for Oyam South.

Obuku stated that whatever funds Amongi receives from the government (Parliament) to support the Oyam South community should now be directed directly to the people.

Geoffrey Okello of Minakulu sub-county has urged former Oyam South leaders such as Beatrice Amongi Lagada, Nelson Adea Akar, and Isaah Otto Amiza to run for the Oyam South seat.

When asked to comment on the outpouring of criticism directed at her, Amongi blamed the current events on her political opponents in Oyam South.