Speaker Anita Among Calls for Efficiency as Uganda’s 11th Parliament Enters Final Session
Underscoring the pivotal role of parliamentary committees, Speaker Among urged lawmakers to devote time and energy to committee work, which she described as the engine room of Parliament.
- Country:
- Uganda
With Uganda’s 11th Parliament entering its fifth and final session, Speaker Anita Among has made a fervent call for Members of Parliament (MPs) to renew their commitment to efficiency, productivity, and legislative discipline as the legislature approaches the conclusion of its five-year term.
Speaking during the plenary sitting on Wednesday, July 30, Speaker Among expressed concern over the low attendance in the House, noting that it could potentially derail the timely completion of critical parliamentary business.
“I want to welcome you to this afternoon’s sitting. I get surprised when the seats are empty. We have not yet reached September. So when we reach September, what will happen?” she remarked candidly, pointing to a growing trend of absenteeism.
A Defining Moment for the 11th Parliament
The fifth session, which marks the last stretch before the nation heads into general elections, is viewed as crucial for completing pending legislative business, reviewing policy frameworks, and delivering on commitments made to constituents since 2021. Speaker Among emphasized that the legacy of the 11th Parliament will largely depend on how diligently MPs perform in this concluding session.
“We did prioritise the business of the session, and that's the Fifth Session. Remember, this is our last session for the 11th Parliament. The meeting [of the Parliamentary Business Committee] emphasised more on greater efficiency and effectiveness in committees,” she said.
The Role of Committees: Backbone of Legislative Productivity
Underscoring the pivotal role of parliamentary committees, Speaker Among urged lawmakers to devote time and energy to committee work, which she described as the engine room of Parliament. According to parliamentary procedures, committees are responsible for scrutinizing Bills, evaluating government programs, and holding ministries accountable.
“And out of that efficiency, that is what is going to make this session productive or Parliament productive,” she said. “I want to request you to support the Business Committee, support Parliament in running the business.”
The Parliamentary Business Committee, which had met earlier in the day, set out a legislative roadmap for the session, identifying key bills and policy reviews that must be concluded before Parliament is dissolved. Among the expected top priorities are the 2025/26 national budget oversight, electoral reforms, pending government loan approvals, and sectoral performance reports.
Preparing for Transition and National Elections
Speaker Among’s address comes at a time when political activity is expected to increase across the country as Uganda prepares for general elections, anticipated to take place in mid-2026. Parliamentary performance during this session will not only define the legislature’s achievements but will also shape individual MPs’ electoral prospects.
“I will request that we finish whatever we are supposed to finish in time or early enough for us to be able to allow you to go for elections,” the Speaker advised.
Her message implies a strategic balance—urging MPs to wrap up their legislative obligations without compromising the institution’s credibility, while also allowing them sufficient time to engage in campaigns in their constituencies.
The Challenge of Attendance and Engagement
Speaker Among’s comments regarding absenteeism highlight a recurring challenge in legislative conduct. Over the years, civil society organisations, the media, and parliamentary watchdogs have consistently raised concerns about attendance, especially during critical debates and budget approvals.
By publicly calling out poor attendance, the Speaker is aiming to reignite parliamentary discipline, and perhaps send a clear message: that institutional responsibility must not be abandoned in pursuit of political survival.
Looking Forward
As the 11th Parliament enters its final phase, the leadership has made it clear that legislative diligence, committee effectiveness, and timely completion of business will be essential for closing the session on a high note. Speaker Among’s appeal reflects a desire to leave behind a record of service and functionality, not legislative stagnation.
The coming weeks are expected to be intense, with MPs balancing national duties with political aspirations, and Parliament’s performance likely to come under increased public scrutiny.
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