Joel Ssenyonyi Defends Appointment of Bobi Wine's Relative as Aide

 In a recent press briefing focused on addressing corruption concerns within Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament (LOP), shed light on the selection process behind his new aide, Brenda Keijagye. Keijagye, coincidentally, is the sister-in-law of Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, the president of the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Speaking to parliamentary journalists, Ssenyonyi provided a detailed account of the circumstances leading to Keijagye's appointment after facing inquiries about the decision.

The process, according to Ssenyonyi, initially involved two other candidates, one of whom was named Faisal. However, the first candidate faced disqualification due to ongoing legal matters stemming from an incident in Kalangala. While acknowledging the individual's qualifications, Ssenyonyi emphasized concerns raised about the candidate's legal situation, citing the importance of upholding the presumption of innocence as outlined in Article 28(3) of the constitution.

The second candidate, as Ssenyonyi explained, was unfairly undermined by unsubstantiated claims that their appointment could impact the electoral prospects of a specific Member of Parliament. This situation left Ssenyonyi with no choice but to turn to Keijagye as a viable option for the position.

Brenda Keijagye, who joined Parliament in 2021 as a policy analyst alongside five others, previously worked under the office of the former Leader of Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga. While her colleagues did not have their contracts renewed towards the end of Mpuuga’s tenure, Keijagye continued to serve in her role.