Lango MPs Demand Answers Over Akii-Bua Stadium Delays, Funding Uncertainty
Written by Admin on October 18, 2024
MPs from the Lango sub-region have voiced frustrations over the stalled construction of the Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira City, which has faced years of delays and financial setbacks. During a parliamentary session on Thursday, they demanded an explanation from the Ministry of Finance regarding the project’s financing. The stadium, initially projected to cost $127 million (about Shs500 billion), was intended to be built through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. However, the government recently halted the signing of a contract due to funding issues.
Erute South MP Jonathan Odur criticized the lack of progress and transparency, noting that without a contractor in place, the project remains in the pre-contracting phase. He also questioned the project’s viability, given that only Shs100 billion has been allocated, leaving a substantial funding gap.
“I am now surprised to hear that we don’t have a contractor. By simple definition, a contractor is somebody you have contracted to do work. So, in the absence of a contract between the two parties, you cannot purport to say we have a contractor at hand,” Odur said
Kwania County MP Tonny Ayo echoed concerns about the delays, arguing that the stalled project deprives the region of a promised sports infrastructure. He pointed out that despite assurances earlier this year, no construction has begun. The project was expected to start following a visit by State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, who announced an Egyptian contractor.
Adding to the discussion, Minister of State for Sports Peter Ogwang assured Parliament that the stadium’s construction is still on track. He explained that the last-minute cancellation of the contract signing at State House was based on the Ministry of Finance’s advice to allow further discussions on the financing model.
Speaker Anita Among has called for a meeting between the Ministry of Finance and Lango leaders to resolve the issue, emphasizing the need for a clear path forward.
Denis Odoch On October 18, 2024 at 12:37 pm
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We have been in the past under look and so all the development coming to Lango has to be a mother- baby Push style, nothing is planed by government of Uganda for long that comes with ease, this definitely is an indication that we are not at the front seat of this government. I wand to appleused the our Mps Especially HON. Jonathan ODUR for always looking forward and bold on matters concern with Lango