The MPs, led by Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, abandoned the 34th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 4th Session of the 11th Parliament, arguing that the bill lacks inclusiveness and is being rushed through without proper scrutiny.
The core of the opposition’s contention lies in the perceived lack of sufficient time allocated for public submissions and engagement with the bill. Ssenyonyi lambasted the Committees on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, and Defence and Internal Affairs, accusing them of hastily processing the bill.
“My colleagues and I are hard pressed to participate in this process. We shall leave you here to participate in it. Process your Bill pretending that you are engaging the input of Ugandans and yet not,” he stated, branding the process a “sham.”
Ssenyonyi emphasized the importance of public consultation in the law-making process. “When you bring a bill here, you should give it time for people to have their input,” he argued.
In response, MP Stephen Bakka Mugabi, who chairs the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, defended the process, citing the Rules of Procedure which permit the processing of bills within 45 days. However, Ssenyonyi countered that while expedited processing is permissible, it is inappropriate when there are interested parties wishing to contribute.
The contentious UPDF Amendment Bill raises concerns about the trial of civilians by military courts. Wilson Kajwengye, Chairperson of the Defence and Internal Affairs Committee, presented a report stating that the committee concluded that such trials should only occur in exceptional circumstances, ensuring a fair trial.
However, opposition MPs remain skeptical. Denis Sekabira, the Member of Parliament for Katikamu North, expressed concern over the impartiality of military courts, arguing that appointed judges within the military lack the necessary independence due to the hierarchical structure of the army.
“A court must be impartial, but in the army, you operate under orders, you cannot have the independence required to dispense justice,” Sekabira asserted. He further argued that the bill undermines the doctrine of separation of powers, alleging that the Executive is using Parliament to grant the army unwarranted authority.
Despite the mass exodus of opposition MPs, some members, including Hon. Abdu Katuntu (Independent MP), Jimmy Lwanga (NUP), and Jonathan Odur (UPC), remained in the chamber.
Safety Concerns Voiced
The already tense atmosphere was further exacerbated by safety concerns raised by Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, the MP for Kiira Municipality. He expressed fear of potential intimidation, alleging the presence of individuals resembling members of the Special Forces Command (SFC) in the Parliament premises.
He requested assurance from the Speaker that MPs would not be subjected to violence, recalling a previous incident where military personnel allegedly raided Parliament during the consideration of the Coffee Bill.
“This morning, I came here after mobilizing the people of Kira to witness the proceedings. However, I found the entire Parliament barricaded by armed police officers,” he stated highlighting the perceived intimidation.
Political Parties Bill Passed Despite Opposition
Amidst the controversy surrounding the UPDF Amendment Bill, Parliament proceeded to pass the Political Parties and Organisations (Amendment) Bill, 2025, sponsored by Nakut Faith Loru Chuna. Earlier, MP Jona Odur presented a Minority Report deeming the bill unconstitutional and urging MPs to reject it. MP Jimmy Akena also criticized the bill, calling it “diabolical” and lacking stakeholder consultation. Despite these objections, the bill was passed.
The walkout by opposition MPs underscores the growing tensions surrounding the UPDF Amendment Bill and highlights concerns regarding the transparency and inclusiveness of the legislative process in Uganda.
The debate is likely to continue, raising questions about the balance between national security interests and fundamental civil liberties. The passing of the Political Parties and Organisations (Amendment) Bill amidst the controversy further fuels concerns about the direction of Ugandan politics.
