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Speaker Anita Among has at last issued a public apology for the flaws and mistakes committed by her parliament in 2024.
In a heartfelt address during the end-of-year thanksgiving prayers held at Parliament, the speaker acknowledged the criticisms and public scrutiny that Parliament has faced throughout the year.
Hon Among expressed her deep regret for any wrongdoings, whether intentional or unintentional, that may have tainted the image of the institution.
"I ask for forgiveness from all Ugandans for anything Parliament has done wrongly, knowingly or unknowingly," she said.
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Among's plea for forgiveness comes at a time when Parliament has been heavily criticised for allegations of corruption, nepotism, and wastage of public funds, with some even calling for her resignation.
Speaker Anita Among and her Deputy Thomas Tayebwa at the thanksgiving
Commitment to Cleanse Parliament
Speaker Among recognised that the cleansing of Parliament would not be an overnight process but assured the public that it was a task she was committed to pursuing.
She expressed her resolve to lead the institution with integrity, promising to address the issues and restore public trust.
"We are here to repent for and on behalf of the institution. This cleansing process will take time, but it is one we are committed to," Among stated.
A Year of Controversies and Protests
The Speaker’s apology comes at the end of a tumultuous year for Parliament, which has been at the centre of various scandals.
Among these controversies was the heated debate over the National Coffee Amendment Bill, 2024, which saw tensions flare between Members of Parliament (MPs), particularly over accusations of tribalism.
In a previous session, Speaker Among had been accused of making discriminatory remarks targeting the Baganda community.
While she denied the allegations, stating that she had been misquoted, the incident added fuel to the fire of public discontent.
Additionally, there were protests by young Ugandans who demanded her resignation, citing widespread dissatisfaction with Parliament's actions and its handling of critical national issues.