Museveni's praise for Among sparks debate over parliament's independence

In a recent address, President Yoweri Museveni praised Speaker Anita Among for her efforts in fostering cooperation between Parliament and the Executive.

"I am very happy with what Anitah Among has done, which has lessened friction between Parliament and the Executive," he said.

However, this commendation has ignited a debate among political commentators about whether the Speaker has compromised the independence of Parliament to curry favor with the president.

Critics argue that Among's approach undermines Parliament's essential role as a check on executive power, a cornerstone of Uganda's democracy.

Political analyst Yusuf Sserunkuma weighed in on the discussion, asserting that Among has become a key player in Museveni's administration.

"Museveni got the best speaker that he ever wished for at a time when he is a very old man, and this is Anita Among. She will go down in history as the best speaker that Museveni wanted," he stated.

Sserunkuma further noted that the current dynamics in Parliament raise concerns about its independence, suggesting that the Speaker's alignment with the executive may diminish the legislature's authority.

“Remember those days when people used to say opposition MPs veil themselves and smuggle themselves into State House? It never happens anymore because Museveni acquired what is regarded as a shock absorber,” Sserunkuma added.

Conversely, Miria Matembe, expressed her disillusionment with the current state of Parliament.

"As we talk now, we cannot talk of a Parliament as an independent organ of the state as it should be," she remarked.

The president's remarks come at a time when Parliament has faced criticism for its handling of budgetary allocations and its perceived alignment with the executive.

While President Museveni's praise for Speaker Among highlights a collaborative relationship between the legislative and executive branches, it also raises critical questions about the independence and integrity of Parliament.