CSOs Demand Action on NGO Bureau Inactivity and 'Illegal' Suspensions

A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has formally petitioned the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, to address critical issues impacting their operations in Uganda. The petition highlights two major grievances: the apparent inactivity of the National Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Bureau and the perceived illegal suspension of several CSOs.

According to the petitioners, a significant number of organizations have been effectively shut down for extended periods, with their operations halted without clear justification or due process. This prolonged closure, they argue, disrupts vital community services and undermines the contribution of CSOs to national development.

The CSOs are also raising alarm over the dormancy of the NGO Bureau, the statutory body responsible for registering, regulating, and monitoring NGOs in Uganda. They contend that the bureau’s lack of activity has created a vacuum, leading to a lack of oversight and, potentially, enabling arbitrary decisions against civil society actors.

In their plea to the Speaker, the CSOs are calling for parliamentary intervention to ensure the swift and lawful operationalization of the NGO Bureau. They also demand a thorough review of the suspension orders issued against various organizations, seeking immediate reinstatement for those found to have been unfairly targeted.

The petition emphasizes the importance of a vibrant and independent civil society sector for Uganda’s democratic and developmental progress. The CSOs are hopeful that Speaker Among will use her office to advocate for a more transparent and accountable environment for their work.

This situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by CSOs in navigating the regulatory landscape and advocating for their rights in Uganda.