LDC Warns MP Lumu’s Bill Could Undermine Political Competition

The Law Development Centre (LDC) has raised concerns over the Administration of Parliament Amendment Bill 2024, introduced by Mityana South MP Richard Lumu. LDC officials warn that if the bill is passed, it may undermine Uganda’s multiparty political system. During a meeting with the legal and parliamentary affairs committee on October 8, 2024, Paul Mukiibi, the head of the department of law reporting, research, and law reform at LDC, criticized the proposal, arguing that it could dilute political party competition in Uganda.
The proposed amendment aims to change Section 8 of the principal Act to enable Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) to elect the Leader of the Opposition (LOP). Currently, the largest Opposition party determines the position. The new arrangement would require the leading Opposition party to nominate at least three of its members from which the LOP would be elected. Moreover, once elected, the LOP would no longer be a member of the largest Opposition party and could be removed by a resolution of Opposition MPs.
Lumu’s bill also proposes to amend Section 11, mandating that shadow cabinet members receive approval from Opposition lawmakers instead of being selected solely by the politburo of the largest Opposition party or the President. Mukiibi pointed out that while the largest Opposition party may sometimes overlook smaller parties, accepting Lumu’s proposals would hinder fair political competition. He advised smaller parties to focus on mobilization efforts to secure the necessary representation.
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Mukiibi argued that the concerns raised by Lumu were not well-defined. He noted that the current system, where the LOP is chosen from the majority party, reflects the essence of multiparty democracy. He cautioned against allowing all Opposition parties to select the LOP, as it could lead to ineffective leadership. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable leadership structure to ensure the LOP can perform their duties effectively without being subject to political sabotage.
MP Jonathan Odur from the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) highlighted that power-sharing arrangements are more complicated in Uganda than in countries like Kenya, where such agreements are pre-negotiated. He advocated for preserving the current provisions of the Administration of Parliament Act, stating that informal coalition agreements in Uganda often lack transparency.
In response to the proposed amendments, MPs expressed diverse opinions. Peter Christopher Werikhe (NRM) challenged Odur’s credibility, noting that some Opposition parties maintain written agreements with the ruling government. He pointed out that members of the Uganda People’s Congress serve in the Cabinet, raising questions about their status as Opposition.
Wilfred Niwagaba (Independent) questioned how incompetence is determined concerning the LOP’s role, while Fox Odoi Oywelowo (NRM) referenced the constitution to emphasize the importance of maintaining the current leadership structure. Odur reiterated that the winner-takes-all mentality in elections further complicates claims of leadership from smaller parties.
Key Points of Lumu’s Bill
Current Provisions
Allows Opposition MPs to elect the LOP
LOP is determined by the largest Opposition party
LOP no longer a member of the largest Opposition party
LOP remains affiliated with their party
LOP can be removed by a resolution of Opposition MPs
Removal process is not specified
Shadow cabinet members approved by Opposition lawmakers
Shadow cabinet members selected by politburo or President