The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has expressed strong reservations about the Lumu Bill, which seeks to change the process of selecting the Leader of Opposition in Parliament.
Appearing before the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, FDC President Patrick Amuriat described the bill as "out of order" and warned that it would further entrench the ruling National Resistance Movement's (NRM) control.
"We believe that if this bill is passed in its current form, it will allow the ruling party to manipulate the opposition leadership, causing the Leader of Opposition to act in fear of impeachment," Amuriat said. "Denying the largest opposition party the right to elect the Leader of Opposition is undemocratic and undermines the power of the voters who put trust in them."
Key Concerns Raised by FDC include
NRM Control. The bill would further entrench the ruling party's control over the opposition.
Undemocratic. Denying the largest opposition party the right to elect the Leader of Opposition undermines democracy.
Fear of Impeachment. The Leader of Opposition would be forced to act in fear of impeachment.
The FDC recommended some Amendments if the Administration of Parliament Act is to be amended
Alternative Election Method. The FDC proposes amending the Administration of Parliament Act to provide for a different way of electing the Leader of Opposition, only if the runner-up in the presidential elections holds the position.
Resignation of Speaker and Deputy Speaker. The amendments should provide for the resignation of Speaker and Deputy Speaker as elected members of Parliament upon election as presiding officers.
Amuriat cautioned the committee and Parliament against forcing opposition parties to seek alternative means of gaining power.
"We warn that if you continue to undermine our democratic rights, we will be forced to look for other alternatives," he said.
The FDC's stance on the Lumu Bill has sparked intense debate, with other opposition parties also expressing concerns about the bill's implications.
