It is not a crime to seek financial bailout from the President, Elioda Tumwesigye has said. Elioda who is the Minister of Science and Technology allegedly wrote to the President asking for a bailout of shs 850M to clear his debts.

A letter surfaced online indicating that Elioda had written to the President. 

The debts, Elioda said in a letter had been occasioned by Sheema Municipality by-election where he contested and won.

“You reaffirmed the pledge to help me settle the debts that accrued from last year’s successful elections of MP Sheema Municipality. Your Excellency, I borrowed money from money lenders and a SACCO and I am now under immense pressure to pay the accumulated outstanding principal, interest and penalties now totaling Shs 850m,” said part of the letter.

Elioda says he hasn’t seen the letter. 

“I haven’t seen letter on social media but I know for the fact that it is not a crime to write to the President. He is also the Chairman of my party,” said Elioda.

“I participated in 2016 elections. Sheema municipality position came into existence when I was still clearing the debts of the previous general elections but also I couldn’t just fold my arms and sit since I am from the municipality. I entered the race won,” he added, according to the letter.