Ugandan opposition MPs refuse to debate bills, claim process is controlled
Although opposition members initially appeared ready to debate, the leader of the opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, suddenly declared that participating would be pointless.
Opposition MPs in Uganda refused to take part in Tuesday’s parliamentary session set to discuss the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces Amendment Bill 2025 and the Political Parties and Organisations Amendment Bill 2025, walking out in protest.
Although opposition members initially appeared ready to debate, the leader of the opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, suddenly declared that participating would be pointless because the bills’ fate had already been decided.
"We can't be part of this. There is no room for debate," he said before leading the MPs out of the chamber.
This announcement followed reports from a ruling party meeting at State House Entebbe, where it was agreed to pass the UPDF bill without any amendments.
Opposition MPs say this shows the process is controlled and undermines the role of Parliament.
The bills have raised alarm among critics who say the UPDF amendment will strengthen military power over civilian affairs, while the Political Parties bill threatens freedom for political groups and activists.
The opposition is expected to hold a press conference soon to explain their actions and future plans.
