The Lumu Bill is designed to weaken the opposition’s voice in Parliament,says FDC

The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has condemned the Administration of Parliament (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced by Richard Lumu Kizito, Member of Parliament for Mityana County South.

The proposed bill seeks to alter how the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) is chosen by allowing opposition MPs to elect the leader, rather than the current system where the largest opposition party appoints the LoP.

Walid Lubega, FDC’s Deputy Secretary for Publicity, expressed concern over the bill, calling it an effort to diminish the influence of opposition parties.

“This bill is a direct attack on our political space, designed to weaken the opposition’s voice in Parliament,” said Lubega.

The bill, which passed its first reading last Tuesday, would also introduce grounds for the impeachment of the LoP.

FDC leaders fear this could allow the ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM), to silence dissenting voices.

“The amendment gives undue power to the government to manipulate opposition leadership through potential impeachments,” Lubega stated.

According to Lubega, the bill’s introduction follows a trend of shrinking democratic space in Uganda.

“We view this as part of a broader strategy to suppress political opposition. It’s undemocratic and goes against the principles of a fair political system,” he added.

FDC has urged lawmakers to prioritize pressing national issues instead of focusing on internal opposition dynamics.

Lubega emphasized, “Uganda has urgent matters that require attention, yet this bill diverts focus from them, undermining our collective progress.”

Lubega maintains that the appointment of the LoP should be determined by the general election results and remains firm in its opposition to the proposed legislative changes.

The bill is currently under review by the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee.

Recent polls reveal a growing unease among Ugandans, with many concerned that the Lumu Bill could exacerbate issues of governance and accountability.

Media coverage has also highlighted ethical concerns surrounding the bill, influencing public opinion and shaping lawmakers' positions.

During parliamentary committee hearings, opposition leaders stressed the need for more transparent and inclusive discussions. Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition, accused the government of rushing the bill.

"This bill is being rushed through without proper consultation. It is not only undemocratic but also dangerous for the future of our governance," he stated.

Ssenyonyi urged Ugandans to remain vigilant, warning that the bill could erode democratic rights.

Political analyst Dr. Patrick Wakida also voiced skepticism, suggesting that while the bill might aim to improve governance, its current trajectory indicates it could be used to target the opposition.

"It seems to be chipping away at the credibility of the Leader of the Opposition," Wakida remarked. He added that, if passed, the bill could enable the ruling party to manipulate opposition leadership selection, weakening democratic representation.

Wakida suggested Uganda could learn from European countries, where opposition leadership structures allow for broader representation.

He cautioned that the Lumu Bill is likely to pass unless the opposition effectively mobilizes to challenge it in court, urging opposition parties to take legal action.

As the ruling party seeks greater control over the legislative process, opposition members and legal experts are increasingly concerned.

If the bill advances, it could reshape Uganda's political landscape, complicating the delicate balance between the ruling party and the opposition.

However, with Uganda facing pressing issues like economic recovery and public health, lawmakers might deprioritize the Lumu Bill, stalling its progress.