A heated dispute has emerged in Uganda’s Parliament over the filling of two vacant seats at the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), with Speaker Anita Among insisting that elections will go ahead on April 15, 2026, despite objections from Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka.
“The clerk to Parliament has already issued a gazette notice, and nominations for candidates will be held on March 30-31 at Parliament,” Speaker Among declared, emphasizing that the two slots are reserved for the ruling NRM party. She also announced a 20-member committee to verify aspirants. “The by-election will move on uninterrupted,” she said.
Attorney General Kiwanuka countered that, legally, there are no vacant positions at EALA until Denis Namara and James Kakooza take oath in the 12th Parliament. He requested time to study the law alongside EALA counsel before any elections proceed.
The Leader of the Opposition questioned the legality of the planned by-election, sparking intense debate in the House. Despite the objections, Speaker Among reiterated, “Elections will proceed unless a retraction letter or court order intervenes.”
The unfolding standoff underscores ongoing tensions between Parliament, legal authorities, and opposition leaders over procedural adherence and the timing of regional legislative appointments.