Speaker Anita Among has adjourned Parliament sittings indefinitely, citing an unresolved impasse over Local Council (LC) elections.
The term of office for LC I and LC II chairpersons expired on July 10, 2023, leading to concerns among members of parliament about the crises arising in villages due to the absence of local leaders.
During the plenary sitting on Thursday, Speaker Among expressed her refusal to proceed with any actions considered illegal. She called upon the government to provide clarity and guidance on the way forward.
“We need a position of government, not to continue speculating,” she said.
In response to the expired term of the LCs, the government extended their tenure. However, the Speaker has challenged the government to present a statutory instrument for the extension, ensuring its legality.
The decision to adjourn Parliament followed a statement by the Attorney General, Kiwanuka Kiryowa.
Kiryowa assured the public that measures were being taken to address the apparent void created by the absence of these administrative units. He urged the recently elected leadership of the administrative units to continue providing necessary services to the people during this transitional period.
Despite the government’s assurances, the Leader of the Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga, expressed doubt regarding the government’s commitment to resolving the impasse.
Mpuuga pointed out that the Attorney General had been aware of the expired term for a week but was now seeking more time for a resolution.