How MPs paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

The session that commenced with a moment of silence observed by Members of Parliament was chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa.

By the time of her death on September 8, the British Monarch had reigned for 70 years, having filled the position at a tender age of 25, replacing King George VI in 1953. She has been succeeded by her eldest son, King Charles III.

The session was attended by the British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Kate Airey, and other dignitaries. The late Queen’s portrait was placed adjacent to the mace - the Speaker’s symbol of authority in the House.

The Prime Minister of Uganda, Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, moved the motion to pay tribute to the late Queen saying that she had presided over the Commonwealth with distinction and that throughout her reign, she played an important role in unifying the UK and people across the globe.

According to Nabbanja, during her reign, the Queen visited almost every country of the Commonwealth, including coming to Uganda twice; first from 28 to 30 April 1954 and later on 21 to 24 November 2007.

“Her visits to Uganda exhibited passion and commitment and contributed immensely to Uganda's development and global standing as exemplified by the ability to host international conferences, and ultimately encouraged direct investment and tourism, along others,” said Nabbanja.

The premier also said that the late Queen had modernised and transformed the Commonwealth into an association that fosters international cooperation and trade links and also into an association that upholds democracy, good governance, peace, rule of law, respect for human rights, and access to justice.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa described the late Queen as an action-driven monarch, who served with passion and commitment something that left the world in admiration.

Representing the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, the Butambala County MP said that there is a need to recall the address of Queen Elizabeth to the Parliament of Uganda in which she called for the supremacy of parliamentary democracy.

He also said that the death of the Queen should be a lesson to Uganda to ensure a laid down transition process once a Head of State leaves power.

“The success of her reign affirms the validity of cultural institutions in advancing social transformation and development, political leaders should not perceive them as antagonistic,” he said.

The Hansard of the special sitting will be furnished to the British High Commission for conveyance to Buckingham Palace.