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Ugandans petition to reduce parliamentary seats

19 July 2024, 2:08 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

A group of Ugandans led by Harambe initiative have launched a petition to reduce the number of Members of Parliament from 529 to 191. The petition, seeks to amend the constitution and promote a more efficient and effective governance structure.

The petitioners argue that a smaller parliament will save the country over 12 billion shillings monthly, which can be channeled towards critical development projects such as road construction, healthcare, and education.

The petition also proposes the elimination of special interest groups in parliament, streamlining the governance structure and making it more responsive to the needs of the people.

According to Nasser Kakumba, the team leader of Harambe Initiative, the petition is non-partisan and has received support from various political parties. The petitioners are urging Ugandans to come out and support this constitutional move which seeks to reduce the number of Members of Parliament from 529 to 191, comprising one Member of Parliament per district or city in Uganda. The remaining 45 seats will be reserved for women representatives, who will be elected by district women councilors.

The petitioners argue that this move will promote gender equality and inclusivity, as well as reduce the financial burden on the country.

Nasser Kakumba and other members addressing the press in Kampala.

“We believe that this petition is a step in the right direction towards promoting good governance and accountability in Uganda,” Kakumba said

The petitioners are urging all Ugandans to come out and support this constitutional move, which they believe will benefit the country in the long run.

“Let us unite to build a better Uganda for ourselves and future generations,” said Kalure Hassan, one of the lead lawyers