East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) aspirant Phiona Rwandarugali has pledged to promote regional integration by advocating for the removal of trade barriers, improving infrastructure, and harnessing technology to boost cross-border trade if elected to the regional parliament.
Presenting her vision, Rwandarugali said her experience living and working in several East African countries has equipped her with a deep understanding of the region's opportunities and challenges.
"My interest in serving is rooted in my understanding of the East African region. I have extensive knowledge of Uganda and Rwanda, particularly in business and regional cooperation. Having been born, raised, and trained in Uganda, I understand my country's priorities and challenges," Rwandarugali said.
She noted that her exposure to countries including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda has strengthened her commitment to advancing the East African Community's integration agenda.
Rwandarugali said, if elected, she would focus on eliminating obstacles to regional trade, improving transport infrastructure, promoting the use of technology in facilitating the movement of goods and services across borders, and expanding economic opportunities for women and young people.
"If given the opportunity to serve, I will advocate for the removal of trade barriers, improved infrastructure, and the effective use of technology to facilitate the movement of goods and services across borders. I will also champion increased funding and support for young people and women to empower them economically across the East African Community," she said.
She concluded by appealing to Members of Parliament to entrust her with the responsibility of representing Uganda in the East African Legislative Assembly, saying she is prepared to serve the region with dedication, integrity, and commitment.
The East African Legislative Assembly does not hold direct public elections on a fixed calendar; instead, its members are elected by the national parliaments of Partner States whenever a five-year term expires or when vacancies arise during the term (be-election).
EALA members serve a five-year tenure, and the current cycle runs within the ongoing Assembly term, meaning elections or replacements are typically organised at the parliamentary level.
In Uganda, the selection process is conducted by Parliament through internal party negotiations and voting among Members of Parliament. Uganda sends nine elected representatives to the Arusha-based based regional body.
These nine seats are allocated through a proportional and political balancing process that reflects the representation of different political parties in Parliament.
