Following a heated scuffle in Uganda’s Parliamentary Chambers yesterday, Speaker Anita Among took decisive action by suspending several Members of Parliament (MPs) for three consecutive sittings. Among instructed the Sergeant at Arms to ensure the suspended MPs were escorted from the Chambers and temporarily halted proceedings.
“I am proceeding to name the MPs and suspend these members for three consecutive sittings. The Members are suspended with immediate effect from the House. I am also invoking Rule 88(2) to order the above MPs to withdraw immediately, and I accordingly direct the Sergeant at Arms to ensure they vacate the Chambers,” Speaker Among stated. She then suspended the session for 15 minutes to restore order.
Among the suspended members were those involved in disputes over the contentious Coffee Bill. The exact list of MPs suspended remains undisclosed, but the incident has sparked significant debate about decorum and order within the Parliament.
In contrast, Speaker Among praised MPs Nandala Mafabi (Budadiri West) and Abdu Katuntu (Bugweri County) for maintaining composure during the altercation. She described their behavior as gentlemanly, noting that they chose to remain calm despite mounting pressure.
The scuffle also involved Anthony Akol (Kilak North), who was reportedly captured on camera assaulting Francis Zaake (Mityana Municipality). According to the Speaker, Akol might have remained in the Chambers had he not sustained injuries during the conflict.
The incident has underscored the need for improved conduct within the legislative chambers, as MPs continue to debate significant bills. The Coffee Bill, which has divided opinions across the house, remains a focal point of contention and likely source of future discussions.
