A group of opposition Members of Parliament has urged former Leader of Opposition Mathias Mpuuga to seek their input before presenting a new bill that proposes changes to the country’s constitution through electoral reforms.
Mpuuga’s bill aims to amend the electoral system, but some opposition MPs and members of the shadow cabinet have expressed mixed feelings about it. While parts of the bill are seen as beneficial, there are concerns that certain sections could harm the opposition. This is because, in the past, the government has introduced bills that have been unfavorable to opposition members.
Engineer Ronald Balimwezo, the Member of Parliament for Nakawa East, known for his outspoken nature, raised doubts about whether the bill would ever pass, even if it had positive aspects. He noted that President Museveni has always been focused on maintaining power, making it unlikely that he would allow such reforms to succeed.
In addition to this, Mpuuga has been tasked to meet the current Leader of Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, to arrange a presentation to the shadow cabinet. This would allow the cabinet to review and endorse the bill before it is tabled in Parliament, ensuring transparency in the process. Hon. Derick Nyeko, another opposition MP, expressed concern that the bill might have hidden agendas based on rumors circulating in the corridors of Parliament.
The opposition MPs emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within their ranks to ensure any reforms are in their best interest before the bill is brought to the floor of Parliament.
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