Politics 18 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
12th Parliament Faces Uphill Battle to Restore Public Trust
As the 12th Parliament prepares to convene, it faces the crucial task of rebuilding public confidence eroded by the controversies and perceived lack of independence of its predecessor. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/12th-parliament-needs-to-restore-public-trust-5464122
The 11th Parliament of Uganda, despite a high volume of legislation passed, is poised to be remembered more for its internal chaos and alleged subservience to executive power than for its legislative achievements. With the race for the next Speaker heating up, citizens are questioning the legacy of the outgoing House.
Incidents such as physical altercations, the presence of security personnel in chambers, and rushed debates on sensitive bills painted a picture of disorder. More significantly, there is a widespread perception that the Parliament failed in its constitutional duty to act as a check on the Executive, with contentious laws like the Computer Misuse Amendment Act and the UPDF Amendment Act passing despite public outcry and legal challenges.
The institution’s integrity was further tarnished by corruption allegations, including the controversial Shs1.7 billion “service award” for parliamentary commissioners, at a time when many Ugandans face economic hardship. Online campaigns highlighting financial mismanagement have amplified public anger, particularly among the youth, who see Parliament as out of touch.
However, this period of public disillusionment presents an opportunity for the incoming 12th Parliament. To regain trust, the new House must prioritize listening to citizens before legislating, engaging in open debates free from intimidation, and holding the government accountable without fear or favour. The upcoming Parliament’s mandate extends beyond merely passing laws; it must actively defend the spirit of the Constitution, safeguard public resources, and uphold the dignity of all citizens.