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Buganda’s Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II of Buganda Kingdom expressed concern over the conduct within Uganda's Parliament.
The monarch in his 2024 Christmas message, urged for more constructive and fair discussions.
He cited the disheartening nature of conflicts arising in the Parliament where fairness and constructive ideas are expected.
Parliament behaviour disheartening
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“Let parliamentary discussions avoid divisions,” said the Kabaka.
“It is disheartening to see that where fairness and constructive ideas are expected, conflicts arise instead.
“This behaviour has even extended to other government meetings, causing concern. Are the proposals benefiting the majority or only a select few?”
Chaotic Parliament
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Uganda Parliament
This year, Parliament has witnessed several incidents of chaos and controversy, notably during the debates on the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
The Bill, which sought to integrate the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) into the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, sparked heated debates and physical altercations among Members of Parliament.
On November 6, 2024, a scuffle erupted between Kilak North MP Anthony Akol and Mityana Municipality MP Francis Zaake over seating arrangements, leading to a broader commotion in the House.
Consequently, Speaker Anita Among suspended 12 legislators involved in the fracas.
Despite the turmoil, Parliament passed the Bill, approving the rationalization of USDA's functions in the Ministry of Agriculture.
The bill was signed into law by President Yoweri Museveni this week.
The passage was met with mixed reactions, particularly from regions like Buganda, where coffee farming is a significant economic activity.
Concerns were raised about the potential impact on coffee farmers and the effectiveness of integrating UCDA's specialized functions into a broader ministry.
Meanwhile, Kabaka's message emphasised the importance of addressing grievances without discrimination or intimidation, urging leaders to focus on long-term solutions that benefit the majority.
As the nation prepares for elections in 2025, the Kabaka called for active participation in the electoral process and the selection of leaders with a spirit of nationalism capable of guiding the Kingdom of Buganda within a united Uganda.