KAMPALA, UGANDA – Joel Ssenyonyi, Uganda’s Leader of Opposition, has strongly criticized the government’s financial bailout of Roko Construction Company Ltd, citing significant delays in key infrastructure projects, lack of transparency, and questionable governance.
“The government’s investment in Roko Construction has not yielded the desired results,” Mr. Ssenyonyi said. “We are concerned about the lack of transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.”
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In July 2022, the Ugandan government invested 207.13 billion shillings ($55 million) in Roko Construction, acquiring a 15% stake in the company. The move aimed to save jobs, ensure continuity of critical government projects, and maintain stability in the construction sector.
However, several government projects, including the Parliamentary Chambers and IGG House, remain incomplete, despite the bailout. Mr. Ssenyonyi’s recent oversight visit to Roko Construction’s head office was denied, sparking concerns about governance and management challenges.
“The denial of access to Roko’s premises raises more questions than answers,” Mr. Ssenyonyi said. “We want to know what the company is hiding.”
Roko Construction, established in 1969, is a key player in Uganda’s construction industry, employing over 1,800 Ugandans directly and indirectly. The company has played a pivotal role in developing major infrastructure projects, including government buildings, roads, and other key facilities.
The opposition leader’s concerns center on the government’s failure to conduct a thorough audit of Roko Construction, addressing critical issues such as the company’s financial status, including loan repayments and supplier payments, the appointment of a Chief Internal Auditor, job protection for employees, and completion timelines for ongoing government projects.
“The Attorney General should present the Share Agreement with Roko to the House for transparency,” Mr. Ssenyonyi demanded. “Ugandans deserve to know how their money is being used.”
Mr. Ssenyonyi has urged the government to provide a detailed progress report on the projects and clarify the company’s shareholding structure, which remains unclear.
“The government must ensure accountability and transparency in its investments,” he emphasized. “Public funds must yield tangible benefits for Uganda’s economy and citizens.”
The opposition leader’s calls for accountability come amid growing concerns about corruption and mismanagement of public funds in Uganda.
