MPs Demand Ministerial Accountability as Speaker Names Those Present in House

What the report says

Ugandan legislators have renewed complaints about ministerial absenteeism in Parliament, according to Nile Post, during a sitting on November 10. MPs argued that some Cabinet members frequently miss sessions, weakening the House’s ability to question government and scrutinize ministries. The concern centered on ministers’ responsibility to attend sittings and respond to issues affecting their departments.

Kalungu County West MP Joseph Gonzaga Ssewungu was among those pressing the issue. He said some ministers are so seldom seen in Parliament that MPs could serve a full term without learning who they are. He also argued that ministers, who are given official support for their work, should show similar commitment to parliamentary duties. Ssewungu suggested incentives for attendance, including a monthly recognition system for ministers who regularly appear in the chamber.

Speaker Jacob Oboth responded by publicly listing Cabinet members who were present and saying their attendance should be acknowledged. The ministers he named included David Bahati, Henry Musasizi, Tom Aza Alero, Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, Jackson Karugaba Kafuuzi, Peter Ogwang, Sidronius Okaasai Opolot, Judith Nabakooba Nalule, Julius Maganda Wandera and Margaret Muhanga Mugisa.

Oboth also said Parliament should not necessarily stop business when the relevant minister is absent. He urged MPs to continue raising motions or proposals and let the House collectively decide on the next steps. The exchange highlights ongoing tension over executive accountability and the practical challenge of conducting parliamentary oversight when ministers are not consistently present.