Politics 26 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda MPs Warned: Miss 15 Sittings, Lose Your Seat
Newly elected Members of Parliament in Uganda have been cautioned against absenteeism and misconduct, with the Clerk to Parliament stating that missing 15 consecutive sittings without permission can lead to the loss of their parliamentary seat. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/miss-15-sittings-lose-your-seat-new-mps-threatened--5474280
Newly sworn-in Members of Parliament in Uganda are facing a stern warning: consistent absenteeism from parliamentary sittings could result in the forfeiture of their seats. This directive was issued during the official orientation for the 12th Parliament, held in Kampala.
The Clerk to Parliament, Adolf Mwesige, highlighted that Article 83(1)(d) of the Constitution and the Parliament’s Rules of Procedure stipulate that an MP who misses 15 consecutive sittings without prior written permission from the Speaker, or a satisfactory explanation to a relevant committee, risks losing their position.
Mwesige urged the new legislators to thoroughly familiarize themselves with the Constitution and the Parliamentary Rules of Procedure. These rules are fundamental to the functioning of Parliament, dictating everything from legislative processes and debates to ethical conduct and the expected behavior of MPs both inside and outside the House.
During the orientation, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who officiated the event, emphasized professionalism and equal treatment for all MPs, regardless of their political affiliation. He stressed the immense responsibility entrusted to them by the citizens of Uganda, which includes representing public aspirations, legislating for good governance, overseeing the executive, and ensuring prudent stewardship of public resources.
Tayebwa also acknowledged the increasingly complex and informed environment in which Parliament now operates, demanding adaptability and responsiveness from lawmakers. The orientation program aims to equip the over 500 legislators with the necessary knowledge of Parliament’s institutional culture, legislative framework, and organizational structure to effectively carry out their duties and uphold public trust.