The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, has urged members of the 12th Parliament to protect the independence of the August House and preserve a culture of robust, issue-based debate, saying opposition is a constitutional pillar of democracy rather than an enemy of government.
Speaking during an induction seminar for Members of Parliament at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Ssenyonyi said Parliament’s credibility depends on its ability to check executive excesses without fear or compromise.
“Legislators in the 12th Parliament must safeguard the independence of the August House and uphold the culture of meaningful debate. Opposition is not an enemy of the ruling party but a constitutional pillar of democracy,” Ssenyonyi said.
He further called on Parliament to take a firm stand against what he described as growing violations of citizens’ rights, including abductions, intimidation and arbitrary closure of media houses.
“Parliament must take a firm stance against the ongoing violation of people’s rights through abductions, intimidation of citizens, and the closure of media houses. The House must defend the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution,” he said.
Ssenyonyi specifically condemned the shutdown of Nation Media Group, arguing that regulatory procedures were not properly followed.
“Media should be left to operate freely. It is unfortunate that Nation Media was closed without the consent of its regulator, the Uganda Communications Commission. Institutions must be left to operate independently without fear or favour and the rule of law must be respected,” he said.
He reminded legislators that a strong Parliament depends on respect for institutional mandates and allowing independent bodies to operate without political interference.
The induction at Speke Resort Munyonyo is equipping both new and returning MPs with training on parliamentary procedure, committee work and oversight ahead of the start of full plenary business in the 12th Parliament.
