Following the Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting on Tuesday, chaired by National Resistance Movement (NRM) chairman Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at State House Entebbe, a significant decision was made to overhaul the proposed list of parliamentary committee members. This list, submitted by Government Chief Whip Hon. Hamson Obua, was intended to fill vacancies on various parliamentary committees.
However, President Museveni, who has recently issued stern warnings against corruption, decisively rejected the list. The President’s refusal came amidst increasing concerns over integrity within parliamentary ranks, especially following the arrest of three members of the Parliament’s budget committee. The arrested members—Cissy Namujju, Paul Akamba, and Yusuf Mutembuli—were caught soliciting a bribe from the Uganda Human Rights Commission in exchange for increasing its budget for the upcoming financial year.
In light of these developments, President Museveni ordered the immediate disbanding of NRM MPs currently heading parliamentary committees. He stressed the necessity of appointing new committee leaders who are committed to upholding ethical standards and are free from corrupt practices.
The CEC’s discussion highlighted the need for a thorough re-evaluation of leadership within the parliamentary committees to restore public trust and ensure effective governance. As a result, the CEC resolved to appoint new members to the various sessional committees. This resolution aligns with President Museveni’s broader strategy to combat corruption and promote transparency within the government.
However, the final appointment of the parliamentary leadership for the ruling NRM party has been postponed for two weeks. This delay is intended to ensure that the process is conducted with utmost transparency and fairness, allowing for a comprehensive review and selection of candidates who demonstrate integrity and competence.
In conclusion, the CEC meeting marked a pivotal step towards reforming parliamentary leadership, with a clear message from President Museveni about the government’s commitment to eradicating corruption. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the new leaders who will steer the parliamentary committees towards a future of accountability and ethical governance.
