There was drama in Uganda’s Parliament today as opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) walked out in protest during a session to debate the UPDF Amendment Bill 2025.
The MPs, visibly angry, left the chamber and refused to participate in the debate. Their main complaint? The committee in charge of the bill did not give the public enough time to study the bill or share their views through public submissions.
“We cannot be part of a process that silences Ugandans,” said one of the MPs before joining the walkout. According to the opposition, many civil society groups, activists, and ordinary citizens were interested in contributing to the discussion but were not given a chance.
The UPDF Amendment Bill 2025 is a proposed law that could change how the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) operate. While the full details of the bill have not been made public, sources say it might give more powers to army leaders and reduce oversight from Parliament. This has raised concern among both MPs and citizens.
Opposition lawmakers believe rushing this bill without enough public involvement is dangerous and undermines democracy. They argued that such an important law should not be passed without hearing from the people it will affect.
Inside Parliament, the Speaker tried to calm the situation and urged MPs to return and express their concerns through debate. But the opposition stood their ground, saying they would only return if the committee reopens the door for public consultation.
Outside Parliament, the public and civil society groups are now paying closer attention. Many say this is not just about a bill—it’s about how laws are made in Uganda and whether ordinary people have a voice in the process.
The government side continued with the session, but without the opposition, the debate has lost its balance. Some ruling party MPs were also seen quietly expressing concern about the process.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on Parliament. Will the committee allow more public input? Or will the bill move forward without it? One thing is clear: the UPDF Amendment Bill has sparked a national conversation about transparency, public participation, and power.
Stay with us for more updates on this developing story.
