JEEMA urges dialogue on controversial Coffee Act amidst growing opposition
The Justice Forum (JEEMA) has condemned the recent use of force and alleged torture by security forces within Parliament, calling it a “blatant disregard for the law.”
In a statement, JEEMA expressed grave concern over what it described as repeated security agency interventions in Parliament, accusing them of using intimidation and violence against lawmakers.
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"JEEMA condemns the routine invasion of Parliament by security agencies who resort to violence and torture against members," read part of the statement.
Dr. Swaib Kaggwa Nsereko, JEEMA’s spokesperson, emphasised that this conduct reflects "a blatant disregard for the law, exacerbated by access to coercive tools, including firearms."
JEEMA also criticised the toll that torture—whether physical or psychological has on individuals and society, urging Ugandans to exercise their constitutional rights and denounce any use of force in policy enforcement.
On the contentious amendments to the Coffee Act, JEEMA called for dialogue before the President signs it into law, stressing the importance of consensus-building.
“Before the President enacts the amended act, there should be dialogue to prioritise generating consensus, especially to address fears and concerns from diverse stakeholders,” Dr. Nsereko added.
The Coffee Act amendments have stirred opposition, with various stakeholders warning they could adversely affect farmers and other players in Uganda’s coffee sector.
JEEMA’s call for dialogue underscores its support for inclusive and transparent governance.
On Wednesday, Parliament passed the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024, transferring the Uganda Coffee Development Authority’s (UCDA) responsibilities to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).
This decision, taken amid protests and a media blackout, saw a reported attendance of 305 MPs.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among rejected allegations of a conflict of interest raised by opposition MPs, clarifying that the Rules of Procedure do not apply to her role as a non-voting presiding officer.
President Museveni has defended the dissolution of the UCDA, stating that it would reduce inefficiencies and align with the government's poverty eradication agenda.
He warned that opposition to this restructuring could hinder Uganda’s economic development.
Meanwhile, Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda, has expressed concerns over the UCDA’s dissolution.
He highlighted UCDA’s critical role in partnerships with Buganda, including seedling distribution and training under the ‘Emwanyi Terimba’ campaign to boost coffee quality and yield.
