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We want cohesion in Parliament – Speaker Among

Published

11 months ago

November 14, 2023

The Speaker of Parliament of Uganda, the Rt Hon Annet Anita Among has emphasized the need for a united and cohesive Parliament. Speaker Among made the remarks today afternoon while opening a Parliament session after a two weeks session. Among said that she is aware about the leadership of Parliament is ready to steer the house in a united and cohesive way. She said that as a leadership they are aware of the concerns being raised by the opposition however noted that the government was expected to prepare its report up to 19th of November 2023 and then will report back on the 21st November 2023. “As your presiding officers, both my deputy and I recognize the importance of a unified Parliament especially on bi-partisan matters such as human rights and civic space and based on that, since Government was given up to 19th November to report back, we expect a statement on Tuesday 21st November 2023 on matters raised” Among stated.

Speaker Among therefore cautioned MPs who have kept missing Parliament saying that should they miss for 15 consecutive times, they would have violated the law which can cause them to lose their seats.

“I also draw your attention to Rule 112 (6) of the Rules of Procedure which stipulates that; “Except with the permission of the Speaker, a Member shall not absent himself or herself for 15 or more sittings of the House during any period when the House is continuously meeting.” So as some Members opt to stay away from the House, they should be cognizant of that Rule. In any case, as the People’s representatives in this deliberative assembly, your absence from the House is akin to extinguishing the voice of those you represent” Among warned.

The MPs of opposition led by the Leader of Opposition vowed not to return in the house unless the government explains the opposition supporters that they say were abducted and are missing and they have missed todays Parliament session.