By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
NATIONAL
More than 500 elected legislators on Tuesday began taking oath for their term of office in Uganda’s 12th Parliament, marking the start of a three-day swearing-in exercise ahead of the commencement of parliamentary business later this month.
The ceremony, which started on May 13, ushers in a new legislative term expected to officially begin after the election and swearing-in of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
In Uganda, the role of a Member of Parliament often extends beyond constitutional duties such as legislation, representation and oversight. MPs are frequently expected by constituents to contribute financially to burials, weddings, school fees, religious activities and community projects.
Over the years, this pressure has exposed many legislators, especially first-time MPs, to heavy borrowing from financial institutions and money lenders.
The opposition Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), which secured a significant number of seats in the new Parliament, has cautioned legislators against falling into debt due to pressure from voters.
“Back in the constituency, there are a lot of expectations from Members of Parliament by the voters even beyond their mandate,” UPC spokesperson Sharon Oyat Arach said.
Arach congratulated all elected MPs upon assuming office, but warned that unmanaged expectations from constituents could expose legislators to financial distress.
“UPC cautions MPs not to fall into debt traps by several money lending institutions due to unnecessary pressure from their constituencies,” she said.
The party also called for integrity, discipline and people-centred legislation in the 12th Parliament.
“UPC calls for legislation that advances social justice, national development and national unity, and discourages any measure that undermines the welfare of ordinary Ugandans,” Arach added.
The party further urged legislators to hold government accountable for improving service delivery at both central and local government levels.
“The party appeals to all MPs to put government to task to improve the speed of service delivery at both central and local government at sustainable levels so as to reduce pressure on MPs,” she said.
The swearing-in exercise will conclude on Friday, May 15.
