Grapevine

Concern as MPs denied access to Roko offices

Leader of Opposition in Parliament (LOP) Joel Ssenyonyi and members of the shadow cabinet were on Monday denied access to Roko Construction Limited premises in Kampala as lawmakers sought to follow up on a Shs23.3 billion government bailout to the firm.

"It's our duty to establish what's happening with taxpayers’ money, and that's why we have gone to different areas. We cannot demand accountability just on the floor of parliament because government ministers often confuse us by giving unclear answers," Ssenyonyi told journalists after they were blocked.

Ssenyonyi emphasized that Monday’s oversight visit was necessary as government seeks an additional Shs200 billion-Shs300 billion on behalf of the construction firm.

"We wanted to know what the money is doing because we have been getting calls from their staff saying that they are demanding three to four months in salary arrears, and yet they are required to work," he added.

Ssenyonyi expressed concern that their October 8 communication notifying the company of the legislators’ intended visit had gone unanswered but, he was surprised to be informed upon arrival at the company premises in Kawempe that the board of directors declined the request.