Allegations surrounding a reported investigation into Speaker of Parliament Anita Among have sparked intense legal and political reactions, after lawyer Godwin Toko warned that the direction of the case could carry serious legal consequences.
The comments follow media reports claiming that security agencies recovered unmarked firearms and military-grade surveillance devices linked to the Speaker’s residences and her security detail.
The reports also allege scrutiny over the expansion of parliamentary security arrangements, though authorities have not publicly confirmed the findings, and investigations are ongoing.
Reports further indicate that investigators are examining claims that Among expanded recruitment of retired security officers into parliamentary protection units, raising questions over how the changes were approved and implemented.
In a public statement, lawyer Godwin Toko expressed concern over how the allegations are being framed and their possible legal implications.
“I have read the lead story in today’s New Vision and I am now VERY WORRIED for Anita Among!” Toko stated.
He compared the current coverage to previous reporting that preceded state security operations, arguing that such narratives often signal heightened enforcement action.
“Like the headline below from 2024 that laid ground for doing the worst to the marchers to parliament, today’s story is laying grounds for doing the worst to Among.”
Toko pointed to claims that unmarked firearms were allegedly found at properties linked to the Speaker, saying such allegations could escalate the matter into military jurisdiction under Uganda’s amended defence laws.
“First, the story alleges that some Israel-made unmarked guns were found at Anita Among’s residence & with her security details… this is bad for her, the Ugandan state is sending her to the one area it sends those it really wants to bring its full wrath on — security.”
He also referenced reports of surveillance equipment allegedly found at her residence, arguing that such claims could lead to additional charges under espionage-related statutes and cybercrime laws.
“Two, they say some military-grade listening devices were found at her place. This means they can say she was a spy, and charge her with treason… or under the Computer Misuse Act.”
Toko further highlighted comments attributed to political figures suggesting prosecution could follow, noting what he described as contradictions in Uganda’s legislative process.
He specifically referred to the Protection of Sovereignty law recently passed by Parliament, suggesting that legislation supported by political leaders could later be applied in legal proceedings involving them.
“With the way things are going, it is a matter of time before allegations start to make rounds… Ugandan legislators never learn. Stop passing laws targeting ‘other people’, you can always turn into ‘other people’.”
The allegations remain unverified, and no formal charges have been announced. Security agencies have not issued detailed public statements confirming the claims circulating in media reports.