UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, TUESDAY 2ND APRIL 2024: Among, Tayebwa Visit Bulange to Support HIV/AIDS Fight; Finance Ministry tasked on nursery tea operator’s compensation;Tayebwa applauds BoU decision on Stanbic Bank CEO change. Dear Friends, Greetings from the Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 19th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. In his communication, the Speaker urged all 529 MPs to participate in the Kabaka birthday run, as all kits have been provided by Buganda Caucus members. “The Buganda caucus has bought a kit for each MP, so there is no reason for you not to run. If you don’t go to run, please refund that money so that we can take it to Mengo. If you can’t run, contribute in another way”, he said. Tayebwa also paid tribute to the late Brig. Gen. Stephen Kiggundu, the Deputy Commander of UPDF Air Force,who died in his bathroom on Sunday. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi Muhammad (MP, Butambala County, Butambala District, NUP) who also doubles as the Chair, Buganda Parliamentary Caucus stated that Parliament’s support for the Kabaka Birthday Run is a positive step toward consolidating national unity, nourishing, and growing Uganda. He also thanked all MPs who joined Speaker Among during the visit to Mengo. “Small endeavors of such nature go a long way towards consolidating our national unity and nourishing and growing our country Uganda”, Kivumbi said. Following Jacob Kiplimo’s victory at the 2024 World Athletics Cross Country Championships, the Leader of Opposition, Hon. Ssenyonyi Joel Besekezi, urged the government to prioritize sports infrastructure development in the country. He further called for timely construction and equipment of Akii-bua Stadium, in memory of Ugandan athletes. “As parliament, we need to take sports more seriously. Sometimes, we think it’s a leisure activity, but it’s serious stuff. That’s why whenever athletes go out there and shine, our country is in the news for good reasons. We want to remind the government that in recognition of these athletes we are celebrating today, can we construct Akii-bua Stadium and have it completed soon”, the LOP said. Responding to the LOP, the Government Chief Whip, Hon. Denis Hamson who also doubles as the (MP, Ajuri County, Alebtong District, NRM) stated that support for the sports sector has been incremental. “At the time of Covid-2019, the budget of the sports sector came down from Shs25 billion to Shs17 billion and further to Shs10 billion, but this parliament has since increased the sports budget to Shs47 billion”, he said. Raising on matters of national importance, Hon. Omara Paul (MP, Otuke County, Otuke District, NRM) requested Parliament to support the Bank of Uganda’s decision to require Stanbic Bank Uganda to hire a Ugandan national as the next Chief Executive Officer to replace Anne Juuko. He noted that Uganda has people with the qualifications to take on the job, despite the fact that such a lucrative position should be given to a foreigner, and that the Bank plays an important role in Uganda’s financial sector. “Uganda has people with the qualifications to take on the job, despite the fact that such a lucrative position should be given to a foreigner, and that the Bank plays an important role in Uganda’s financial sector”, he said. In response, the Deputy Speaker supported Uganda’s Bank Of Uganda in rejecting the appointment of a non-Ugandan as CEO of Stanbic Bank Uganda. He argued that Uganda should follow Kenya and South Africa’s lead in protecting Ugandan workers by reserving such lucrative positions for their own nationals. “Stanbic Bank was in the hands of a Ugandan, Patrick Mweheire, it performed very well. The brought in a female, young Ugandan lady, it also performed exceedingly very well. Now the question of bringing in a non-Ugandan to a Bank which we entrusted our biggest assets & most of our money, you would ask yourself why? If Ugandans were performing badly, you would have an issue. There is no foreigner who can go to Kenya and become a Managing Director of the Bank. In South Africa where Stanbic is coming from, there is no foreigner who is the Managing Director of any Bank, why Uganda?”, Tayebwa said. “I want to support the Central Bank for rejecting the non-Ugandan who was nominated because when the Bank performs well, now they want to take it back themselves. Otherwise, let them give us a swap, let a Ugandan be the Managing Director in another country then they come here. Some of us support the central Bank, it was right to reject the foreigner to come and be”, he added. Hon. Ebwalu Jonathan (MP, Soroti West Division, Soroti City, INDP) stated that Teso war claimants have not yet received their livestock compensation benefits. “I would like the Attorney General to bring a schedule of payments for people of Teso who lost their property and also bring a progress report of payment for not only Teso but also Lango and Acholi sub-regions”, he said. In response, the Attorney General, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka didn’t agree with Hon. Ebwalu, claiming that some payments were made and that a report on the matter was submitted to Parliament. He said, ” It’s not correct that we are not doing anything [on cattle compensation], in fact, we were required to submit a report on all payments made in cattle compensation and I am absolutely certain because I presented them to Parliament myself”. He added that he would meet with all MPs from Teso, Lango, and Acholi to resolve all issues concerning cattle compensation to war claimants. Hon. Okot John Amos (MP, Agago North County, Agago District, NRM) later presented a petition on behalf of the community of Lapono and Lira Kato sub-counties in Agago North against land grabbers of their customary land. In response, the Deputy Speaker referred the petition to the Minister of
Today in Parliament/ 5th March 2024.
UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, TUESDAY 5TH MARCH 2024: Speaker Among addresses KCCA laborers’ payment issues; The Human-Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, 2023 tabled; Tayebwa – address the issue of nodding syndrome. Dear Friends, Greetings from the Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 16th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. In his communication, the Speaker welcomed members to the afternoon sitting. Hon. Achieng Sarah Opendi (DWR, Tororo District, NRM) later tabled the Human-Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, 2023” for first reading. The Bill was referred to the Committee on Health for perusal and report back. The Human-Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, 2023, seeks to fill gaps caused by Uganda’s lack of a legal framework governing human-assisted reproductive technology. The Human Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, 2023, also seeks to establish the rights and responsibilities of those involved in human-assisted reproductive technology, as well as the rights of children born through technology, and to regulate embryo donation and storage. According to Hon. Sarah Opendi, the Bill also seeks to regulate the various fertility clinics that are operating and increasing in Uganda without any piece of legislation. “We have consulted stakeholders and to our surprise, many African countries that started these services 30 years ago do not have any legislation. Uganda will be one of the few countries where other countries will benchmark is this Bill is passed”, she said The Human-Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, 2023 also seeks to provide for the designation of health units as fertility centers, and provide for the establishment of sperm and sperm banks within fertility centers. The proposed law will also designate the Medical and Dental Practitioners Council as the body responsible for the administration of the Act. The House then moved on to receive a report on the operations and performance of UBC TV. This was presented by the Vice Chairperson of the Committee on ICT Hon. Ayoo Tonny who also doubles as the (MP, Kwania County, Kwania District). According to Hon. Ayoo Tonny, UBC has faced challenges in maintaining operations and has nearly lost its status as a leading broadcaster due to competition. He also told MPs that UBC TV owns over 42 pieces of land across the country. However, it was discovered that encroachers are constantly devising ways to acquire a portion or all of the land for personal use. Hon Tony Ayoo claimed that UBC’s lack of proper ownership documentation, uncleared roads, idle land, and unfenced-off areas put it at risk of grabbing. The Committee noted that UBC lacks sufficient human, technical, and financial resources to operate, monitor, and maintain its infrastructure. “Gov’t should enhance UBC budget to enable recruitment of the required human resource & acquisition of requisite equipment”, Ayoo said. To complete Phase III of the Digital Migration Project, the Committee proposed that the US$ 1 million debt owed to lntraset be paid as soon as possible so that satellite connections can be established for the 17 up-country sites. To improve national broadcaster coverage, the Committee urged the government to provide infrastructure that would allow all underserved areas to access UBS radio and television. The Committee recommended that the government allocate Shs7.5 billion to UBC for the provision of direct-to-home services. The House also received a report by the Committee on ICT on the petition of the National Association of Broadcasters against the presidential directive to channel all government advertisements exclusively through. Reacting to the reports tabled, the Chief Opposition Whip, Hon. Nambeshe John Baptist who also doubles as the (MP, Manjiya County, Bududa District, NUP) noted that the presidential directive to grant exclusive rights to UBC was unconstitutional. “This is common with presidential directives which are unconstitutional & have become extremely difficult to ensure compliance”, he said. Hon. Nsereko Muhammad (MP, Kampala Central Division, Kampala, INDP) on his part stated that the purpose of relaying parliament sittings live is to support the legislative agenda by transmitting information to remote areas. Meanwhile Hon. Nalule Asha Aisha Kabanda (DWR, Butambala District, NUP) urged the government to cease its interference in the operations of UBC TV and avoid turning it into a political organization. On the same note, Hon. Katuntu Abdu (MP, Bugweri County, Bugweri District, INDP) compared UBC to a bottomless pit, where money is invested without any return on investment. “There is nothing changing at UBC. They can’t even pay gratuity or salaries, or URA, the land is going…What is the return on the money we are investing in UBC?”, he said Hon. Angura Fredrick (MP, Tororo County South, Tororo District, NRM) called on fellow MPs to rally behind UBC in order to facilitate the availability of affordable decoders. According to the MP, this will enable citizens to access a wide range of channels offered by the network. The Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa suggested that while it is prudent to support UBC, it should be given performance targets. According to Hon. Aber Lillian (DWR, Kitgum District, NRM) it is crucial to provide support to UBC. However, it is equally important for the leadership and administration of UBC to operate it as a profitable business that contributes revenue to the government. This will ensure transparency in financial investments and accountability in expenditure. The State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku Kiime confirmed that the presidential directive on sole advertisement to UBC was rescinded in a letter dated 15 August 2023. According to the Minister, UBC operates in 49 languages, with 11 radio stations and 4 TV stations. “Some of the radio stations are not breaking even but we must disseminate information and maintain them”, he said. The State Minister for Finance, Hon. Henry Musasizi Ariganyira who also doubles as the (MP, Rubanda East County, Rubanda District, NRM), stated that UBC received Shs24 billion in the Supplementary Budget for the current fiscal year. Parliament later received the report of the Committee
Today in Parliament/ 28th February 2024
UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, WEDNESDAY 28TH FEBRUARY 2024: Speaker Among directs KCCA to clear casual workers’ arrears; Minister Otafiire summoned by parliament over relocation of Luzira Prison; MPS halt the abolition of NITA-U. Dear Friends, Greetings from the Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 14th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, the Speaker criticized the Kagadi incident in which a government vehicle ran over a demonstrator and killed him instantly. The locals were protesting the poor state of the roads in Kagadi District. “I was dismayed by a video in which a government vehicle fatally ran over a person in Kagadi district. Such acts of lawlessness have no place in our society and I urge the relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure that Justice prevails. I convey my condolences to the bereaved family and pray that the Lord grants the deceased eternal rest”. she said. The Speaker also urged the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to pay its casual workers several months in arrears. On Monday, a group of workers stormed Parliament in protest of their unpaid arrears by the government. Some of the workers claimed that they had been requesting payment for the past 45 months, but had been unsuccessful. “I want to urge the leadership of KCCA to ensure that the aggrieved persons are attended to because people can’t work without being paid, how are their families being looked after? We want those people to be paid because at least we know, money has always been released for wages”. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, Hon. Naluyima Betty Ethel (DWR, Wakiso District, NUP) brought to the attention of the House that local governments nationwide are facing similar challenges. She highlighted the issue of inadequate remuneration for casual laborers in various administrative units. Additionally, she pointed out that crucial funding from donors such as DEG from Germany and local funding under the Uganda Road Fund has not been disbursed, resulting in limited operations for local governments. “We pray that as we are handling KCCA laborers, we also look into the matter of staff at local governments and what the entities are generally going through, concerning what they are supposed to do as far as the decentralization role is concerned”. she said. On a similar note, Hon. Kangwagye Stephen Rwakanuma (MP, Bukanga County, Isingiro District, INDP) mentioned an engineering company under MBW Consulting Limited, that was contracted by Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) but has not been paid. “The company did good work and UIA verified that the work was neatly done, but they did not pay them. The company has tried all avenues to pay their workers and meet bills but they have failed. It will be good for them to be heard by the Ministry of Finance”. he said. Hon. Kunihira Agnes Abwoli (MP, Worker’s Representative, NRM) called for a re-examination of the Employment (Amendment) Bill, 2023 that sought to streamline the welfare of casual laborers in the country. “We passed this Bill but we have not received any response on it to date. We need to protect such workers because they do not benefit in terms of saving with NSSF, getting leave among others”. she said. The State Minister for KCCA and Metropolitan Affairs, Hon. Kyofatogabye Kabuye) stated that casual laborers at the Authority are demanding pending payment for work done over the last four months. The Speaker later instructed the Minister to submit a comprehensive report to the House. Raising on matters of national importance, Hon. Mbwatekamwa Gaffa (MP, Igara County West, Bushenyi District, NRM) expressed concern over the government’s decision-making process without consulting the people’s representative. “The story about the relocation of Luzira prison has been in social media but I have not seen any minister or the Prime Minister coming to this House to explain if it is true”. he said. He also stated that he had two letters already in the public domain regarding a presidential instruction to Otafiire to hold consultative meetings on the relocation of the Luzira prison. “The letter by the President on relocation of the prison is dated 10 July 2022, and the letter by Otafiire inviting stakeholders in regards to the directive is dated 22 February 2022”. he said. In response, the Speaker asked Prime Minister Nabbanja to summon the Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Kahinda Otafiire to parliament to explain the relocation of Luzira Prison. MPs also voted against a government bill that sought to dissolve the National Information Technology Authority Uganda and transfer its functions to the Ministry of Information, Communication, Technology, and National Guidance. The National Information Technology Authority Uganda (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was one of several bills introduced by the cabinet in February 2021 to implement the government’s policy of rationalizing government agencies and public expenditures. The government’s rationale for merging agencies is to improve efficiency, avoid duplication of services, and reduce wasteful government spending. The Committee on ICT, which reviewed the Bill, recommended that the Authority’s mainstreaming be postponed because there was no duplication of mandate between the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and NITA-U, which demonstrated its financial contribution through the issuance of licenses, permits, and commercialization of the national backbone infrastructure. The Committee also noted that NITA-U had collected approximately Shs200 billion over the last ten years and expected to collect Shs150 billion over the next five years. According to Hon. Ayoo Tonny, Deputy Chairperson of the ICT Committee, while the Committee supports agency rationalization, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance failed to demonstrate the Authority’s financial drain on the consolidated fund. “The Ministry was tasked with policy or strategic leadership and supervision of the entire Ministry while NITA-U was mandated to regulate and coordinate and regulate ICT services in Uganda in the context of social and economic development”. he said. He justified that NITA-U is the
Today in Parliament/ 27th February 2024
UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, TUESDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2024: Speaker Among directs Deputy Tayebwa to lead MPs to Lubowa hospital site; Parliament Dissolves National Records and Archives Agency; House pays tribute to fallen clan head Dear Friends, Greetings from the Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 13th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, the Speaker asked the government to explain why the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Ssenyonyi Joel, was denied access to the Lubowa specialized hospital construction site. She questioned the Executive’s reliance on Parliament to allocate funds without oversight to ensure value for money. “Yesterday, the Leader of Opposition, led a team to one of the institutions that we have given money, that is Lubowa hospital, to my surprise, I am told, which I am yet to confirm, I am told the team was denied access to see what is happening, where our money has gone and I think that is really unfortunate because we are doing what we are mandated to do as per the Constitution, we are doing our oversight role. So I think, as Government, you need to guide us should we just sit here, appropriate money we don’t see what is being done and we call it a day, remember this is taxpayers money”. she said. Moving forward Anitah Among tasked the Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, to lead a team to visit the site on Wednesday. The Speaker also led Parliament in paying tribute to Daniel Bossa, Head of Ndiga Clan in Buganda, who was shot dead over the weekend. She urged Ugandans with financial capacity to install CCTV cameras in their homes. The speaker also asked the government to implement incentives to make CCTVs affordable to all Ugandans. “I want to call upon the relevant security agencies, to thoroughly investigate the cause of this incident and in addition, we need to ensure that Police makes sure that all the CCTV cameras installed around are operational, we may just be looking at CCTV cameras when they aren’t working”. Among said. The Speaker added “We want to urge these people to ensure all the CCTV cameras are working so that we may be able to follow it up. And I want to plead with all Ugandans who can be able to afford CCTV cameras to equally put cameras around their homes but Gov’t should also come with an incentive by reducing the cost of the CCTV cameras so that everybody is able to have the CCTV”. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Nakadama Rukia Isanga who also doubles as the (DWR, Mayuge District, NRM) led the government in paying tribute to Bbosa, the leader of the Ndiga Clan, and promised to ask the Ministry of Internal Affairs to update Parliament on Uganda Police’s progress in installing CCTV cameras nationwide. “I want to add my voice and condole with the people of Ndiga clan for the loss of our dear brother. We are sorry for what happened but I know the culprits, since we have some, even the rest will be got. On the issue of cameras, I am going to call the Minister of Internal Affairs on how far and how much area has been covered and what is remaining”. she said. The LOP, Hon. Ssenyonyi Joel Besekezi who doubles as the (MP, Nakawa West Division, Kampala, NUP) on his part demanded that Parliament stop funding the construction of Lubowa Hospital. “Let’s halt paying any more money to Lubowa Hospital because they are not accountable”. he said. In a similar way, Hon. Rwabushaija Margret Namubiru (MP, Workers’ Representative) condemned the action of the Opposition from accessing Lubowa hospital site, wondering why the security forces found it necessary to arm themselves with guns, yet the MPs appeared on site unarmed, warning that such actions if not addressed would see Parliament’s oversight powers slip away from the Legislature’s hands. “Our oversight responsibility looks like it is slipping away from our hands and so, we need to demand once again, and let the other organs know that we are still MPs. It was so disheartening when I saw on Television a big team of MPs who were denied to enter and see and that was belittling Parliament. I think they are sealing it (Lubowa hospital site) off and nobody is going there, because it is a ghost. We don’t know what is happening because if there was some work going on, then there is nothing to fear. But also coming when they are armed and our MPs aren’t armed, it is threatening because one of these days, we might hear that someone has been shot at”. she said Hon. Ongiertho Emmanuel Jor (MP, Jonam County, Pakwach District, FDC) wanted to know if it was time for Ugandans to forget about Lubowa Hospital. “I remember some time back, even the Health Committee went and they were denied access, the question that Government should answer is, is this facility being constructed? Let them answer and say No or Yes, and if we have to forget about it, we forget about it”. he said. Hon. Ssemujju Ibrahim Nganda (MP, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District, FDC) also told Parliament that the government has paid an excess of US$70Mn (Shs276.166Bn) in uncertified work at Lubowa Hospital and the resident engineer deployed by Gov’t to secure the interests of Ugandans was chased away by Enrica Pinetti, the proprietor of Lubowa Hospital. “If you read the report of the Auditor General, the Auditor General John Muwanga reports that while Gov’t is supposed to have a resident engineer, that angel Pinetti has since chased the resident engineer. Her resident engineer is the one submitting requisitions to the Ministry of Finance to pay and the Auditor General says that actually, they have paid money for even work that hasn’t
Over 70 Bills have been passed by Parliament, raising concerns.
The eleventh Parliament has successfully passed over 70 bills into law within two and a half years of its establishment. Despite the progress made, concerns have been raised regarding the prioritization of non-issues and controversial amendments. Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua acknowledges the productive legislative output but expresses frustration over the focus on non-essential matters. “All acts are in line with the demands of the public to which our service as government is directed”. he said The controversial amendment in bail application, despite being rejected by the majority in their Caucus, continues to be a source of criticism both within and outside the government. The opposition, while actively participating in parliamentary roles, expresses concern about the government’s appropriation of bills that were previously under their jurisdiction. The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, highlighted the stagnation of their bills since the government took control, calling for immediate action. “A number of our bills have stagnated ever since government took them over for consolidation. We call for expediting”. he said. Notable pieces of legislation include the Anti-Homosexuality Act, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, the Uganda Human Organ and Transplant Bill, and the Traffic and Road Safety Act. These laws reflect the wide range of issues addressed by Parliament. Despite these accomplishments, challenges remain, and the parliament recognizes the ongoing work ahead. Both the government and the opposition emphasize their commitment to serving the public interest and ensuring good governance.
Today in Parliament/ 20th February 2024
UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, TUESDAY 20TH FEBRUARY 2024: Gov’t tables The Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2023; Speaker Anitah removes ineffective MPs from the PAC Committee; MPs approve The Animal Feeds Bill, 2023 Dear Friends, Greetings from the Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 12th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, the Speaker ordered for the re-designation of MPs & transfer of all staff who snubbed the induction training at Serena Hotel-Kigo. The Speaker emphasized that their absence from the training resulted in wasteful spending by the Parliamentary Committee. She added that its it is necessary for them to step down from the Accountability Committees in order to make room for MPs who are committed to fulfilling their legislative responsibilities. “If we can’t be accountable to ourselves, then why do we want to have other institutions accountable, whatever we made at Parliament is a nugatory expenditure which isn’t called for, because of wasteful expenditure are making us go through and I am going to ask the whips to re-designate the MPs who and the staff of Parliament are making us go through and since you don’t like being in accountability committees, I am going to ask the Whips to re-designate the MPs who were in those Committees and didn’t attend the workshop and let us give those who are interested to go to those Committees”. Anitah said. The Speaker disclosed that an induction workshop was organized for the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Central and the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE), where several MPs and parliamentary staff were invited. However, out of the 90 MPs who were supposed to attend, only half of them actually participated. “When we send you for an induction you don’t go, and when you are interacting with witnesses you may not know what to ask the witness, our performance is determined by what we do at Committee and in the House and whereas Parliament wants other institutions to do accountability, as Parliament, we should lead by example. As Parliamentary Commission, we paid all the money for hosting all the MPs who were going to sleep in the hotel, unfortunately only 50% attended and remember that is one of your roles as MPs where a member is obligated to attend both Committees and plenary what was in the hotel was a Committee induction”. the Speaker said. The Minister of Public Service, Hon. Muruuli Mukasa later tabled the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2023 for first reading. The Bill was forwarded to the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs for scrutiny and report back. The Bill seeks to merge Equal Opportunities Commission with Uganda Human Rights Commission to form one commission that performs the functions of both commissions. This is intended to remedy the duplication of the roles and functions of the two commissions and to cut costs of administration. The Bill also seeks to dissolve the Uganda Law Reform Commission and establish a department responsible for law reform in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. Other bills that were received by the House include : The National Tribunal Bill, 2023; Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2024.; The Rationalization of Government Agencies (Social Development Sector) (Amendment) Bill, 2024; The Rationalization of Government Agencies (Tourism Sector) (Amendment) Bill, 2024; Karamoja Development Agency (Repeal) Bill, 2024; The Uganda National Information Technology Authority, Uganda (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and; The National Records and Archives (Amendment) Bill, 2024; The Rationalization of Government Agencies (Works and Transport Sector) (Amendment) Bill, 2024. These Bills were referred to different committees for scrutiny. Reacting to the Bills tabled, Hon. Basalirwa Asuman (MP, Bugiri Municipality, Bugiri District, JEEMA) accused the Attorney General of frustrating their efforts to bring comprehensive legal reforms, including the National Legal Aid Bill, 2022. Former LOP, Hon. Mathias Mpuuga requested more information on the government’s energy sector plans, specifically regarding Umeme Ltd’s successor agency, whose concession expires next year. “I have not heard anything to do with the energy sector [on the rationalization policy] yet I am aware that gov’t is shopping around for either a succession company or merging the same”. Mpuuga said. Hon. Nathan Byanyima (MP, Bukanga North, Isingiro District, NRM) questioned the government’s delay in presenting a bill to consolidate UETCL, UEDCL, and UEGCL into a single entity, as previously suggested. The Attorney General, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka on his part affirmed that the Government is in the last phase of implementing extensive constitutional reforms. He also informed MPs that the bills under consideration in Parliament pertain to entities established through Acts of Parliament. “The entities created by an Act of Executive do not have to come to the House but the ministers concerned can report to the House”. he said The House then moved on to consider The Animal Feeds Bill, 2023 under second reading. This was presented by the State Minister of Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama, who also doubles as the (MP, Isingiro County North, Isingiro District, NRM). The Animal Feeds Bill, 2023 seeks to provide a legislative framework for operationalisation of the Animal Feeds Policy by regulating the production, importation, exportation, and marking of animal feeds and by establishing the Animal Feeds Committee to regulate the same. The Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, Hon Janet Okori-moe who also doubles as the (WR, Abim District, NRM) presented the committee findings. According to the committee, all means of transport, whether privately owned or contracted, bulk or packed, and by water, rail, or land should be regulated to control and minimize the risk of contamination of animal feeds. “The production, processing, storage, transportation & distribution of safe & suitable feed feeds is the responsibility of all participants in the feed value chain, including farmers, feed ingredient manufacturers, and feed compounders, among others”. the Chair said. She further noted that The Animal Feeds Bill of 2023
Today in Parliament/ 15th February 2024
UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, THURSDAY 15TH FEBRUARY 2024: Farmers advised to start planting; Parliament Committee calls for review on refugee policy Dear Friends, Greetings from the Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 11th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. In his communication, Speaker Tayebwa informed MPs that the Statement on the performance of schools of children with disabilities will be presented next week. The House then moved to consider a report on the state of refugees and refugee-hosting communities. This was presented by the Vice Chairperson of Committee on Equal Opportunities, Hon. Acen Dorcus who doubles as the (DWR, Alebtong District, NRM). According to current refugee figures (2022), 50% of Uganda’s refugees live in the Bidi Bidi, Palorinya, and Rhino refugee settlement camps on the West Nile. She noted that South Sudan is the primary source of refugees in Uganda, accounting for 62% of the population, followed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo at 29%. She added that the geographical position of the hosting communities and the similarity in the local languages have made it easy for refugees to integrate with local communities. She also revealed to MPs that the increasing number of refugees has created a lot of pressure on existing water & sanitation resources. The Committee noted that the influx of refugees had led to encroachment on wetlands in the various settlements and recommended measures for natural resource conservation. Moving forward, the Committee recommended that OPM construct more water supply systems and latrines to cater for the increasing influx of refugees. The Committee observed a significant rise in the number of refugees entering the country, raising concerns about the country’s long-term sustainability. The Committee urges the government to thoroughly review its refugee policy to prevent a potential prolonged conflict arising from the influx of refugees and the lack of adequate funding resulting from cuts in budgetary support from donors. Reacting to the report, Hon. Zijjan David Livingstone (MP, Butembe County, Jinja , INDP) said “The report highlights a decline in support from the international community. Our priority should be engaging in negotiations with the countries involved in this cause, urging them to allocate more resources to Uganda, a hospitable nation that hosts refugees”. According to Prime Minister Nabbanja, Uganda is currently hosting about 1.6 million refugees. She added that People who come to Uganda as refugees come to save their dear lives and are running away from problems because we are secure and peaceful. “We have a policy that allows people or the neighbours to come freely into this country and almost every month, we get people who come to benchmark on our refugee policies” she said. Nabbanja also told MPs that its only Uganda that has a Minister in charge of refugees. This shows how the President and the government of NRM are committed. The LOP, Hon. Ssenyonyi Joel Besekezi who also doubles as the (MP, Nakawa West Division, Kampala, NUP), on his part urged the Ugandan Government through the MFA to collaborate with neighboring countries to assist in hosting refugees. Hon. Ssewanyan Allan Aloizious (MP, Makindye West Division, Kampala, NUP) noted that the influx of refugees in Kampala has increased the living costs for ordinary Ugandans, making houses too expensive. “We have communities of Congolese in Makindye, Kibuuye II Parish. We have Eritreans in Lukuuli, Nsambya Parishes and even Somalis in Kampala Central. They are almost overtaking the population of the residents there. Most of these people have too much money to avail themselves of good housing, food and everything good in life. This has brought problems as the landlords in these places do not wish to accommodate the residents of Ugandan descent proffering the Eritreans because they come with a lot of money to afford their houses”. he said. Hon. Oneka Lit Denis Amere (MP, Kitgum Municipality, FDC) noted that whereas everyone is a potential candidate for refugee, a cost-benefit analysis must be assessed. “We allow refugees to come but we also need to control the influx depending on how we can manage them”. he said. The report on the state of refugees and refugee-hosting communities was later adopted by the House. The House also received a Report of the Committee on Government Assurances and Implementation on the Presidential pledge to extend electricity to industrial parks, directly from power generation plants. This was presented by the Committee Chair, Hon. Bwanika Abed who also doubles as the (MP, Kimaanya – Kabonera Division, Masaka City, NUP). According to the committee report, the Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development made a commitment that, by July 2022, all industrial consumers located in industrial parks will purchase electricity directly from generation plants at a rate of US Cents 5 per unit. Consequently, the Committee suggests that the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development provides funds to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development in the form of a subsidy totaling Shs160.34 billion. This allocation is intended to support the complete execution of the Presidential directive across all Industrial Parks, enabling manufacturers to acquire electricity at a rate of US Cent 5 per unit. The Committee noted that the pilot implementation of the US Cents 5 per unit by the Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development did not promote fair competition among industrial parks as it exclusively favored privately operated ones. The discussion on this report was rescheduled to a later time to accommodate the Prime Minister’s Time. The House then moved to Prime Ministers Time where the PM responds to questions from Members of Parliament. Prime Minister Nabbanja Robinah who is also the (DWR, Kakumiro, NRM) told MPs that police management has not considered disposing of the aircraft as a means of “utilization. She was responding to a question that was raised by Hon Elijah Okupa regarding the Uganda Police Helicopter (Aircraft Fixed Wing 5X PEF/P180
Today in Parliament / 14th February 2024.
UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, WEDNESDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2024:Schools banned from obtaining loans; UNEB to release UCE results tomorrow; use of national IDs as collateral for money lenders is illegal – says Minister Dear Friends, Greetings from the Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 10th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. In his communication, Speaker Tayebwa informed MPs that the plenary sitting will end earlier at 5 P.m. to allow MPs to attend the Ash Wednesday Catholic mass at Parliament. The House then moved on to receive a Statement on the transition from O’level to A’level under the new Curriculum. This was presented by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Moriku Joyce Kaducu who doubles as the (DWR, Moyo District, NRM). She noted that the pioneer cohort of the new lower secondary curriculum will take their end-of-cycle examinations in November 2024. The Minister also told MPs that UNEB is currently engaging with stakeholders to enhance awareness regarding the New Lower Secondary Curriculum and the expected changes. She also advised government and government-aided schools to avoid commercial loans and seek authorization from MoFPED through the PS (Ministry of Education) as per the PFMA Act, 2015. According to the Minister, the Ministry of Education and Sports has allocated a budget for the 2024/2025 financial year to continue reviewing the A-level curriculum for competence-based development. She added that the Ministry will ensure all preparations in terms of training of teachers, instructional materials, etc are all made prior and adequate. The Minister later announced that UNEB will release UCE results tomorrow. “We were together with the team from UNEB looking at the results which are going to be released tomorrow and before that”. the Minister said. While presenting another statement on prohibitive school fee charges, the Minster said the Ministry of Education and Sports is embarking on the process of implementing compulsory free universal education for all. However, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa ruled that the debate on the statement on school fees will ensue next Tuesday to allow the Minister to bring concrete measures on the same. Debating the Statement on the transition from O’level to A’level under the new Curriculum, Hon. Kanushu Laura (MP, PWD Representative) suggested that teachers need refresher training to handle special needs students, and parents need answers on which schools to choose for their students. Hon. Byarugaba Alex Bakunda (MP, Isingiro County North, Isingiro District, NRM) also accused the Ministry of Education and Sports of not adequately addressing the persistent school fees issue over the years. In a similar way, Hon. Musila John (MP, Bubulo East County, Namisindwa District, NRM) argued that it’s time to address the new A’level curriculum entrants. He added that the Ministry of Education and Sports is sleeping on the job. According to Hon. Ababiku Jesca (DWR, Adjumani District, NRM) the Madi sub-region faces a significant issue with Amelo Technical School, which has been stalled by the government for over a decade. To achieve a competence-based curriculum, Hon. Bwanika Abed (MP, Kimaanya – Kabonera Division, Masaka City, NUP) proposed reducing class hours to foster a competence-based curriculum, allowing students to engage more with society. Hon. Muserure Shartsi Nayebare Kutesa (MP, Mawogola North County, Ssembabule District, NRM) expressed concern over the stalled Uganda Secondary Education Expansion Project, which was set to construct 116 new seed secondary schools in 16 districts. “The USEEP Project has delayed yet government is already paying interest on the US$150m loan that was approved in July 2020, with a closing date of 2025. Can the Ministry of Education & Sports present the progress made and why no work has begun?”. she said. Hon. Omara Paul (MP, OtuKe County, Otuke District, NRM) voiced concerns about the criteria used by schools to select students for admission, which he believes undermines equity and justice. “Parents are crestfallen because schools will refuse to admit students with 8 aggregates and admit those with 12”. he said. Finally Hon. Nakut Faith Loru (DWR, Napak District, NRM) requested that pioneer students of the new A’level curriculum be exempted and given university certificates. State Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. David Muhoozi, who doubles as the (MP, UPDF Representative) later addressed pending issues raised during the debate on the renewal process and guidelines for National IDs. The Minister declared that the use of National IDs as collateral for money lenders is deemed illegal. “The regulators of money lenders should strike off such persons who unlawfully retain ID cards, from the record of authorized money lenders”. he said. He added “Citizens should report such matters to Police to allow the entity handle perpetrators lawfully”. Minister Muhoozi confirmed that they will beat the deadline for renewing National IDs and are committed to doing so. Muhoozi also confirmed that the owners of the old, valid IDs will receive a new one and the old ones will be retrieved and destroyed. Minister Muhoozi notes that Ugandans in the diaspora can renew their IDs through a new system that offers online pre-registration and registration at embassies. According to Minister Muhoozi, Ugandans without expired IDs will not be required to renew them during the mass enrolment exercise. “Unexpired cards will be renewed if the holder of the card so desires. All processes and facilities are in place for this. There is continuous enrollment for IDs so that there is no vaccum in service delivery. Persons below the age of 16 years only acquire NINs and not cards so there is continuous enrolment for these”. the Minister said. Minister Muhoozi also said that it would be impossible for Ugandans to get instant National IDs like the case is with driving permits due to the need to verify citizenship, which isn’t the case for driving permits. “Driving permits are instant because there are no citizen verification. A process of reviewing the depth of family relations in Uganda
Parliament has directed the Police SACCO to cease mandatory deductions on officers’ salaries.
The Uganda Police Forces’ savings scheme has been directed by the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs of Parliament to cease the mandatory deduction of personnel salaries as savings. The directive follows findings by the committee which implicated the Police’s Exodus Savings and Credit Cooperative (SACCO) management in the violation of the Cooperatives Societies Act by denying the police personnel the option of voluntary saving. “The committee reiterates that the Registrar of Cooperatives Societies proceeds over the SACCO under Section 2 (2) of the Cooperatives Societies Act and immediately stops mandatory deductions on officers’ salaries and contributions for members’ savings until a comprehensive membership register is compiled on the condition that only willing members are registered”. Wilson Kajwengye said. The recommendation was contained in the committee’s report on the inquiry into the operations of Exodus SACCO that was during plenary sitting on Tuesday. The committee chairperson clarified that stopped deductions should only apply to savings, and members with outstanding loan obligations should continue paying the SACCO. Kajwengye stated that the financials of SACCO are not being managed in accordance with sound accounting principles and standards. “It is the committee’s considered opinion that inconsistencies in data compilation is the major cause of discrepancies and unreliable financial positions which has significantly affected the members’ savings”. Kajwengye said. The committee recommended refunding retirement benefits deductions with interest to affected personnel, arguing they violate the Pensions Act. The committee further urged Parliament to direct the Office of Registrar of Cooperatives and Bank of Uganda to institute an independent forensic audit on the Exodus SACCO, as mandated by law. The report suggested that the Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives should direct the Registrar of Cooperatives to initiate the process effectively. The report revealed a significant risk in the transmission of membership returns from District Police Commanders outside Kampala to the headquarters in Kampala. “The SACCO had no systems to effect deductions from source. Due to the inadequate verification process of membership contributions and insufficient records from inception, the SACCO management could not comprehensively update the members’ register”. said Kajwengye. The committee discovered that the percentage shareholding and savings of each member cannot be reliably determined. The report also suggested that SACCO management should establish a policy for claiming the savings of departed members, as the management of their savings, shares, and loans is maintained as if they are still active. MPs raised concerns about the Registrar’s integrity in ensuring the recovery of mandatory deductions. However, Gen David Muhoozi, the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, justified mandatory deductions as aimed at improving officer welfare, similar to the army’s Wazalendo SACCO. “Granted, we had issues at the beginning of management, some of the issues still subsist but I want to urge members that rather than stampede a crash of this SACCO why don’t we approach with caution and convince people to stay?”. Muhoozi said. He agreed with the recommendation to institute a procedure on access of benefits of deceased by their next of kin. “This money is theirs and they are entitled to it,” said Muhoozi. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa disagreed with the minister, stating that mandatory deductions of members’ salaries are illegal. “It is very imperative that immediately you stop mandatory deductions. It is supposed to be voluntary; you cannot do much about it unless if you change the law. This money of theirs is hard earned”. Tayebwa said. He directed the Minister of Internal Affairs to present an action taken report within three months.
Today in Parliament / 13th February 2024.
UPDATES FROM PARLIAMENT, TUESDAY 13TH FEBRUARY 2024: Uganda to commemorate 47th Janan Luwum Day; Parliament hails outgoing ambassador; Report on IDs tabled. Dear Friends, Greetings from Africa Leadership Institute and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 9th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. In his communication, Speaker Tayebwa asked the Clerk to Parliament to organise a blood donation drive at Parliament so that Members of Parliament can contribute towards solving the blood shortage in the country. “Let us donate blood, you never know who you will save you, your relatives or loved ones in the future. Nakasero Blood Bank has been around the country appealing to people to donate blood, we have a big shortage in the country. I want to request the Clerk to Parliament to organize for a blood donation week at Parliament so that we MPs can be able to donate blood”. he said Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, Hon. Opendi Sarah Acheing (DWR, Tororo District, NRM) suggested that a blood drive should be accompanied by the necessary funds to procure the necessary reagents. “ubts is short by Shs10bn and in November, they put a supplementary request which has not been honored.” she said. Hon. Nandagire Christine Ndiwalana (MP, Bukomansimbi North County, Bukomansimbi District, NUP) advised MPs to meet specific requirements for blood donation, including being 45kgs or older and aged 18-60 years. “Make sure that your diet is good and you don’t collapse and also make sure you aren’t in your menstrual periods as ladies.” she said. Hon. Opio Samuel Acuti (MP, Kole North County, Kole District, INDP) on his part welcomed the Deputy Speaker’s call, revealing that the World Health Organization estimates that Uganda requires 450,000 units of blood per year, but Uganda can only collect 350,000 units. “Several times we have presented on the floor of Parliament unfunded priorities for the blood bank. They need more funding to buy vehicles so that they may be able to bridge the gap. A lot of the blood is collected when we are in schools and Nakasero Blood Bank has indicated that whenever students are on holiday, there are huge shortages of blood, so it is important that we moblise MPs and other adults so that they can fill this gap”. he said. On behalf of the government, the Government Chief Whip, Hon. Obua Denis Hamson who doubles as the (MP, Ajuri County, Alebtong District, NRM) paid special tribute to the outgoing Ambassador of Japan to Uganda, H.E Fukazawa Hidemoto whose tour of duty has ended. He thanked Amb. Fukazawa for his efforts in ensuring that the Uganda Athletics team participated in the 2022 Tokyo Olympics at the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic, which saw Uganda produce remarkable results. “He is the reason why Uganda participated in the 2022 Olympics Games and ended up putting up the most viable competition in our post-independence history. I want to thank him because he coordinated our team very well, remember the 2022 Olympics were held during the COVID-19 pandemic, he connected Uganda to the pre-trial camp in two cities. You tour of duty has come to an end, wherever you go, please go with the blessings of the people of Uganda”. he said. According to Hon. Otimgiw Isaac Ismail (MP, Padyere County, Nebbi District, NRM) the Japanese government has significantly influenced Uganda’s health sector. “MoH launched 116 ambulances to go to our respective constituencies & out of the 116, 25 were a direct donation from Japanese gov’t”. he said. The Deputy Speaker on his part thanked the outgoing Japanese Ambassador to Uganda H.E Fukazawa Hidemoto for lobbying the Japanese Gov’t to increase funding to Uganda in sectors of education, health and infrastructure, saying his efforts have been critical at boosting the growth and development in Uganda. “The Ambassador will be leaving Uganda after completing his duty in Uganda, he has been a friend to many. He had been able to lobby for the people of Uganda for increased funding to sectors ranging from; health, education, University research, infrastructure, energy team and you know Japan is associated with quality”. he said Hon. Bagiire Aggrey Henry (MP, Bunya West County, Mayuge District, NRM) told MPs that during his tenure as Minister of State for Transport, Ambassador Fukazawa proposed providing defensive driving skills to all Ugandan motorists in order to reduce road carnage, which primarily kills young people. “I remember I had a discussion at the time and he told me that one of the challenges Uganda is facing is the death of young people on the roads and he brought in an idea of training drivers in defensive driving. He wanted to bring in machines in this country to train drivers like they train pilots to make sure that we reduce on the road carnage in this country”. he said Raising on matters of national importance, Hon. Mbwatekamwa Gaffa (MP, Igara West County, Bushenyi District, NRM) requested that the government provides subsidies to all tea farmers and factories that have closed or are nearing closure. He added that tea farmers are not earning enough income from the tea industry, causing them to abandon their plantations. In response, the State Minister for Industry, Hon. Bahati David who doubles as the (MP, Ndorwa County East, Kabale District, NRM) noted that an inter-ministerial committee has been discussing the matter on tea farmers and the report will be presented to Cabinet on Monday, whose recommendations include an immediate subsidy for tea farmers and factories. The Shadow Minister for Water & Environment, Hon. Kaaya Christine Nakimwero who also doubles as the (DWR, Kiboga District, NUP) was concerned about the declining cleanliness of most abattoirs, particularly in town councils and municipalities. In response the Deputy Speaker assigned the Committee on Health to visit all abattoirs and provide a report within a month. Hon. Muhindo Harold Tonny (MP, Bukonzo County