Members of Parliament from the Teso sub-region are reportedly contributing money through their WhatsApp group to help former Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among meet basic household expenses after the freezing of her bank accounts allegedly left her unable to access funds.
According to reports, several lawmakers from the region have been offering financial support to Among as investigations into Parliament's financial management continue.
One MP, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed the contributions are helping cover food and other household necessities.
"Yes, the situation is bad for Among. We raise money for her food and other household necessities. Among always supported our initiatives, and we can't let her down," the legislator reportedly said.
Another lawmaker reportedly revealed that the fundraising is coordinated informally through the Teso Parliamentary Group's WhatsApp platform whenever assistance is needed.
"It is true that Among's main problem now is food. She cannot access her accounts to buy food, so we chip in with our resources. It's strange but true," the MP reportedly said.
Reports further indicate that the financial difficulties may have been worsened by restrictions allegedly placed on bank accounts belonging to her husband, Budiope East MP Moses Magogo.
The matter was reportedly discussed during a recent meeting between the Paramount Chief of the Iteso Cultural Union, Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Etomeileng Emolot, and Gen. Salim Saleh at Saleh's residence in Kapeeka, Nakaseke District.
During the meeting, the Emorimor reportedly appealed to Gen. Saleh to intervene and help secure the release of Among's frozen bank accounts.
"These bank accounts were frozen when her homes in Nakasero and Kigo were raided by security forces. Now life is so difficult for Hon. Among. She needs money to buy food and run her businesses," the Emorimor reportedly said.
In response, Gen. Saleh reportedly said he would look into the matter.
"You know I am not a politician. I don't tell lies like your politicians. That's why I failed in politics. But I will work on that issue," he reportedly responded.
Among remains under investigation following searches conducted at her residences in Nakasero, Kigo, and Bukedea as part of a broader probe into the management of Parliament. Several senior parliamentary officials have since been charged with various offences, including embezzlement, money laundering, and causing financial loss.
According to sources, food is also occasionally transported from Bukedea District to help support her household during the ongoing investigations.