Teso Elders Seek Fairness in AAA Probe
Anita Among probe has drawn a public appeal from elders in the Teso sub-region, who have asked President Yoweri Museveni to ensure that ongoing investigations involving the former Speaker of Parliament remain fair, transparent, and free from political influence.
In a May 28 statement issued under the banner of the Iteso Cultural Union, the elders said they support accountability and respect the work of State agencies. However, they warned that political pressure and public condemnation could undermine confidence in the process before investigators complete their work.
The statement, signed by Mr Alloch William Akoll, a senior advisor on ICU affairs, called on investigators to uphold the rule of law, transparency, and the constitutional principle of presumption of innocence.
Teso Elders Urge Fair Anita Among Probe
The elders said State agencies should conduct the investigations without interference. At the same time, they argued that Ms Among deserves a fair hearing as authorities examine allegations of illicit enrichment, corruption, and abuse of office.
“We appeal for the rule of law and a fair hearing during the investigations,” Mr Akoll said in the statement. He added that State institutions have a duty to promote accountability, although they must do so with fairness and respect for due process.
The elders also described themselves as non-partisan. Therefore, they said their appeal should not be treated as opposition to accountability or as an attempt to obstruct investigations.
Read Also
Museveni Sworn In for Seventh Presidential Term
Museveni Asked to Act With Impartiality
The elders appealed directly to President Museveni, asking him to approach the matter with impartiality and statesmanship. They said the President should help ensure that political differences do not overshadow legal procedures.
“We in the utmost good faith call upon the national leadership, particularly His Excellency President Museveni, whom we have always trusted in his wise decision-making, to look into these matters with the eyes of a statesman, elder and father,” the statement read in part.
They further urged national leaders to resolve political differences through dialogue, consensus, and respect for regional representation.
The appeal comes at a sensitive moment in Uganda’s political establishment. Since May 16, joint security teams involving detectives from the Criminal Investigations Directorate, anti-corruption agencies, and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces have been investigating allegations against Ms Among.
Investigations Extend to Properties and Assets
Security teams have conducted searches at properties associated with the former Speaker in Kampala City, Wakiso, and Bukedea districts. Several high-end vehicles were reportedly seized during the operations, including a Rolls-Royce Cullinan said to be valued at Shs3.4 billion, a Mercedes-Maybach, and a Range Rover.
The elders questioned measures reportedly taken before the investigations have ended. In particular, they raised concern over the freezing of assets, restrictions on movement, and what they described as sudden political isolation.
“We further urge that the freezing of assets, restriction of movement, and sudden political isolation of a high-ranking national leader while investigations are still ongoing could be avoided or controlled to prevent public bias against the investigation process and its outcome,” the statement said.
According to the elders, such steps could shape public opinion before investigators present their findings. As a result, they urged authorities to avoid actions that may appear punitive before due process has run its course.
Anita Among Probe Raises Political Tensions
The Anita Among probe has also stirred debate in Teso, where Ms Among has held significant political influence. Some voices have demanded accountability, while others have called for restraint and fairness as the investigations continue.
Mr Akoll said the elders are ready to engage State institutions through dialogue and peaceful means. He said their goal is to support justice while preventing deeper political tensions in the region.
The elders also highlighted Ms Among’s role in development and community support. They argued that her contribution to Teso and other parts of Uganda should not be ignored as the legal process continues.
They cited several initiatives linked to her tenure as Speaker. These included the donation of medical equipment worth Shs600 million to Bukedea Health Centre IV in 2022 and tractors valued at Shs300 million to farmers in Kidongole Sub-county, Bukedea District.
Elders Call for Calm During Investigations
The elders said they would continue to monitor the situation closely. They also expressed solidarity with Ms Among, whom they described as a daughter of the region.
“The elders will continue to monitor the situation very closely and stand in solidarity with Rt Hon Anita Among as our daughter,” the statement read. They added that their support aims to provide a peaceful environment for legal investigations into the allegations.
The group also reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful, just, and equitable Uganda. In their view, the country should respect every region’s contribution while allowing institutions to address allegations of wrongdoing.
As investigations continue, the elders’ appeal places fresh pressure on national leaders to balance accountability with fairness. It also highlights the wider political sensitivity surrounding a case involving one of Uganda’s most prominent former parliamentary leaders.
