Parliament Approves Kiryowa and Bangumya for EALA Seats

The Ugandan Parliament has officially approved Stella Kiryowa and Fred Rwakaizi Bangumya as the country’s new representatives to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). This decision follows the adoption of a report by the Parliamentary Verification Committee, which confirmed that only these two candidates met the necessary qualifications for the vacant EALA seats.

The two positions became available after former EALA representatives Hon. James Kakooza and Hon. Dennis Namara transitioned to serving in the 12th Parliament of Uganda. The deadline for nominations was July 10, 2026, and only Kiryowa and Bangumya submitted their papers.

During a parliamentary session chaired by Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth on July 16, 2026, the Verification Committee Chairperson, Hon. Dicksons Kateshumbwa, presented the findings. The committee verified that both nominees satisfied the constitutional requirements outlined in Article 80 of the Ugandan Constitution and Article 50 of the East African Community Treaty.

Before the final decision, both candidates addressed the Members of Parliament. Stella Kiryowa spoke passionately about her journey and her readiness to contribute to the future of the East African Community, emphasizing the importance of unity for future generations. Fred Bangumya highlighted Uganda’s pivotal role in regional integration and pledged to focus on enhancing cross-border trade and developing sustainable infrastructure within the EAC.

Given that only two candidates were nominated and unopposed for the two available seats, Speaker Oboth ruled that a secret ballot was unnecessary. Kiryowa and Bangumya will now join the existing contingent of seven Ugandan representatives in Arusha.

Source: https://www.howwe.ug/news/national/43316/parliament-endorses-kiryowa-and-bangumya-for-vacant-eala-seats