Deputy Speaker Tayebwa seeks Commonwealth support for parliamentary enhancement

Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has engaged with the Commonwealth Secretariat to explore avenues for strengthening Uganda’s legislative body. During a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Tayebwa highlighted the need for enhanced capacity building for Members of Parliament and staff, alongside the critical push for digitalization of parliamentary processes.

Tayebwa emphasized that improved capacity would enable MPs to debate national issues more effectively. He also stressed the importance of digital transformation for an efficient Parliament and expressed a desire for the Commonwealth to facilitate study visits and exchanges. These interactions would allow Ugandan MPs and staff to learn from the experiences of other Commonwealth legislatures and adopt best practices.

Secretary-General Botchwey, on her first official visit to Uganda, indicated that the Commonwealth is keen on institutional strengthening and the sharing of experiences among member states. She pledged to collaborate with the Ugandan Parliament on the issues raised, acknowledging Parliament’s vital role in democratization, accountability, and the promotion of liberties.

Discussions also touched upon making the Commonwealth more relevant to ordinary citizens, particularly the youth, through initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, and climate adaptation. Tayebwa asserted that the Ugandan Parliament is currently performing its oversight role effectively, with both ruling party and opposition members actively participating in holding the executive accountable.

Opposition Chief Whip Paul Mwiru corroborated this, noting a growing culture of mutual respect and facilitated oversight committees, creating an environment where issues can be freely raised. Botchwey welcomed the Opposition’s active participation, recognizing it as a cornerstone of parliamentary democracy.

This engagement precedes the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), with the Secretary-General’s visit focusing on strengthening institutions, resilience, and sustainable development across member states.

Source: Nile Post