The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) met with the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee today to discuss the Marriage Bill 2024.
This marks the final day of public consultations by the committee before it begins nationwide consultations to gather broader perspectives on the proposed legislation.
During the engagement, the IRCU expressed concerns about the current form of the Marriage Bill 2024, arguing that it does not adequately protect the institution of marriage as ordained by God.
Religious leaders emphasised the need for a legal framework that upholds traditional and faith-based values while safeguarding the sanctity of marriage.
The Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee has been conducting consultations with various stakeholders, including religious groups, civil society organisations, and legal experts, to ensure the bill reflects the diverse views of Ugandans.
The next phase of consultations will involve engagements at the national level, allowing citizens from different regions to express their opinions on the proposed law.
The Marriage Bill 2024 seeks to address several aspects of marriage, including the rights and responsibilities of spouses, legal recognition of different types of unions, and measures to protect vulnerable groups.
However, the IRCU argues that certain provisions within the bill may undermine the moral and spiritual foundation of marriage, calling for revisions that align with religious teachings and cultural values.
As the parliamentary committee moves into the next phase of consultations, the debate surrounding the Marriage Bill 2024 is expected to intensify, with various interest groups advocating for amendments that best represent the interests of the Ugandan people.