‘You were misled’ - Mafabi counters Among’s decision on Nganda replacement

Speaker Among yesterday, Wednesday penned a letter to Nandala, referencing a petition from a faction of FDC MPs. This group of MPs had claimed that the procedures outlined within the party had not been followed when Yusuf Nsibambi was selected as the new whip, replacing Hon Nganda.

"Although these concerns pertain to internal party affairs, they inevitably impact the cohesiveness, unity, and functionality of the Parliament," Among's letter emphasized.

"Hence, I am compelled to withhold any action until the issues raised by the petitioners are resolved, with subsequent communication to that effect. This measure aims to preempt any legal ramifications and disruption of parliamentary proceedings," Among informed Nandala yesterday.

Responding to Among's stance, Nandala's reply came swift and pointed. 

He argued that the MPs who had brought forth the petition had misled the Speaker with regard to the adherence to party protocols in the whip replacement process. 

Nandala clarified that the replacement and removal of Hon Nganda were decisions made not by himself, but by the FDC Working Committee, a body equivalent to the party's cabinet.

The Secretary-General substantiated his assertion by attaching minutes from the committee meeting that validated the decisions in question. He criticized the petitioners for failing to comprehend that the Working Committee, not he, was in charge of such matters.

"It is regrettable that none of these petitioners belong to the Working Committee. In fact, they approached the wrong office," Nandala expressed.

"This petition never reached the Party's desk. It would have been useful had they also furnished you with our Party Constitution to highlight any transgressions," he added.

Nandala also accused the MPs of having misguided the Speaker and suggested that a direct consultation with him could have dispelled any misconceptions. 

"Madam Speaker, these members have given you inaccurate information... If you had sought clarification from me as both a Member of Parliament and Secretary-General, I could have certainly provided it," Nandala affirmed.

Furthermore, Nandala directed criticism at the Parliament for intervening in the FDC's internal affairs, deeming it a violation of the amended Political Parties and Organizations Act. 

He stated, "Our intention as FDC is not to oust Hon Ssemujju from his parliamentary seat, but rather to reassign him from the role we designated within the Party."

In an attempt to offer clarity on the issue at hand, Nandala urged Speaker Among not to be swayed by certain members who might misuse their privileged positions. 

He recommended that the petitioners direct their concerns to the Party or seek legal resolution. Nandala emphasized that the Parliament's involvement was limited to being informed of appointments by the Party, which did not necessitate parliamentary approval.