TAKEAWAYS

• Each MP gets a Shs315.3 million car grant
• Monthly benefits include fuel and constituency facilitation
• Foreign travel, medical cover, office setup, and pension add to the total cost

Have you ever wondered how much money is spent on MPs when they get elected? Of course, a lot has always flown around about the huge monies they pocket, but let’s break it down here.

As Uganda ushers in the 12th Parliament, each Member of Parliament is set to receive a Shs315.3 million car grant, a jump from the Shs200 million allocated in the previous term. The latest budget means taxpayers will spend Shs166.8 billion on vehicles alone for the 529 lawmakers.

Beyond the vehicle grant, MPs also enjoy a range of facilitation packages and benefits tied to their work. According to the breakdown making rounds online, this includes about Shs31 million in monthly fuel facilitation, with legislators from far-flung rural constituencies reportedly receiving more due to longer travel distances.

They are also said to receive Shs20 million for constituency work, money often meant to support community outreach, local engagements, and monitoring of government programs.

Whenever an MP travels abroad on official duty, they are entitled to a $520 daily per diem, which translates to roughly Shs1.9 million per day, depending on the exchange rate.

Other benefits include a free iPad, family medical insurance, a furnished office, and a monthly pension estimated at Shs9 million after service.

The figures continue to fuel public debate, with many Ugandans questioning whether such spending matches the country’s pressing needs in health, education, and infrastructure.