In a bid to promote inclusivity and opposition representation, DP’s Mityana South Member of Parliament Richard Lumu has proposed an amendment to the Parliamentary rules through his Proposed Amendment Bill, The Administration of Parliament (Amendment) Bill, 2024, seeking to ensure that the Deputy Speaker of Parliament comes from the opposition benches.
He addressed Journalists at Parliament earlier today.
Currently, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament is elected by the ruling party-NRM which has majority seats through a secret ballot. The procedure is guided by three laws and rules.
- The Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995): Article 82(2) state that the Deputy Speaker shall be elected by MPs from among themselves
- The Parliamentary Election Act (2005), Section 14.
- Rules of Procedure of the Parliament of Uganda: Rule 5(1) outlines the procedure.
Lumu argued that the current setup where the ruling party holds both Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions undermines the principals of separation of powers and checks and balances.
According to Lumu, the Deputy Speaker would be required to come from the opposition benches, a departure from the current norm where the ruling party holds both the speaker and Deputy Speaker positions.
Lumu argued that the amendments would bring about the much-needed balance and diversity in Parliament’s leadership, allowing for more robust debate and representation of diverse views.
“When the ruling party controls both positions, it creates an imbalance that stifles debate and opposition voices. By having a Deputy Speaker come from the opposition, we can ensure a more balanced representation”. Lumu said.
The proposal has received support from some opposition MP’s, who say it will give them a stronger voice in Parliament.
Some critics however argue that the proposal could create tensions and conflicts between the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, potentially undermining the smooth operation of Parliament.
Lumu however dismissed these concerns, saying the proposal is about promoting democracy and inclusivity, not creating divisions.
“The Deputy Speaker’s role is to support the Speaker, not to create conflict. This proposal will strengthen our democracy, not weaken it”. He said.
Lumu is also seeking to create new opportunities for independent MP’s by adding slots to the Parliamentary Commission, ensuring their voices are heard.
The proposals are expected to be debated in Parliament in the coming weeks
Report compiled by Teddy Namayanja. She’s a staff writer at SML News UG passionate about politics and human rights.