Former Members of Parliament under the Association of Parliamentary Alumni of Uganda have called for special recognition measures to protect them from what they describe as continued disrespect and mistreatment by security agencies and members of the public.
During their Annual General Meeting held at Parliament, the former legislators backed proposals for official identification cards and distinctive attire to help recognise them at public and state functions.
They argued that similar recognition is accorded to former military officers and war veterans in other countries, allowing them to maintain their dignity even after leaving active service.
Former Oyam South MP Isa Otto Amiza said some former legislators have experienced embarrassing situations at state events due to difficulties in being identified.
"We have been victims of this kind of harassment and occasionally pushed and kicked at state functions like Kololo. At times, we are saved by ministers who easily identify us and come to our rescue," Amiza said.
The former MPs said their challenges extend beyond recognition and include loss of income, limited access to healthcare services and reduced influence in public life after leaving Parliament.
They claimed that some former legislators are denied proper treatment at public functions, including access to seats and basic refreshments.
Amiza said some former MPs have started avoiding state functions because of the difficulties they face.
"Some of us have started ignoring state functions because of the consequences we go through, yet we played a critical role in the politics of this country. The only way of avoiding such mistreatment is the creation of special jackets, like it is in Kenya and Tanzania, where former MPs are easily identified at state functions," he said.
Other members proposed the creation of special identification cards for former legislators, saying the documents would serve as official proof of their former status.
The former MPs also urged the 12th Parliament to amend the retirement benefits scheme to include former legislators among beneficiaries of a monthly retirement package, similar to arrangements for former presidents, former Speakers and judges.
Gelard Menya, former Chairperson of the Presidential Affairs Committee in the 8th Parliament, said the proposed package would not involve benefits such as vehicles, houses or domestic workers, but rather a monthly allowance funded through contributions.
He suggested that former MPs could receive between Shs10 million and Shs15 million per month if the proposal is approved.
The former legislators also reminded President Museveni of his earlier pledge to provide Shs100 million to members who served from the 1st Assembly to the 9th Parliament.
They said the number of former legislators covered by the pledge is estimated to be between 500 and 800, but the commitment remains unfulfilled.
The Association of Parliamentary Alumni of Uganda said the proposed reforms would help preserve the dignity of former legislators while recognising their contribution to Uganda's political development.
