The Parliament’s Rules, Privileges and Discipline Committee has recommended that Gen. Elly Tumwine be reprimanded for breach of privilege of Dokolo Woman MP Cecilia Ogwal and for being disrespectful to Parliament.
The committee’s recommendation stems from its investigation into allegations of contempt of parliament leveled against Gen. Tumwine and his alleged attack on Ogwal in the corridors of parliament.
In her statement to the committee during the investigations, MP Ogwal said that Gen. Tumwine allegedly attacked her over statements she had made on the floor of parliament pinning him for drawing a gun against her. The alleged confrontation followed a debate in which several MPs accused Tumwine of severally questioning the powers of parliament and directives made by the Speaker Rebecca Kadaga.
While tabling the majority report on Wednesday, the committee head Clement Obote Ongalo hinged his submission on testimonies that he said pointed to assault as per dictionary meaning.
“Whereas its common practice for Members to continue discussions of the contents of one another’s debates in the House beyond the chambers, the Committee observed that Hon. Gen Tumwine’s gestures and proximity to Hon Ogwal were unconventional, dishonourable and an affront to the Member’s immunity and privilege,” said Ongalo.
The committee also cautioned that Gen. Tumwine should be conscious of the fact that given his seniority in terms of military rank, long service in Parliament and age, his statements are taken seriously and therefore, his language and conduct should be exemplary.
Tumwine speaks out
In his response, Tumwine attacked fellow MP Atkins Katusabe [Bukonjo County West] together with health Minister Sarah Opendi accusing them of telling lies during their testimonies.
“You reap what you sow, if you sow lies you harvest lies.The truth will set parliament free. The truth is that all these are lies and I respect this parliament as long as it says the truth otherwise I request judicial justice in the matter.”
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