Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-11 17:36:38
Corruption and bad governance are often associated with the NRM government in Uganda, leading many to look towards the Opposition in Parliament to fight for the people. The recent social media campaign #UgandaParliamentExhibition has shed light on the alleged corruption within the 11th Parliament and its handling of large sums of money.
The 11th Parliament consists of various members, including Constituency Representatives, Women Representatives, UPDF members, Youth Representatives, Persons with Disabilities’ Representatives, Workers’ Representatives, Older Persons’ Representatives, and Ex-officio Members. The majority of members belong to the NRM party, making up about 60.3% of the Parliament, while the Opposition comprises about 19.7%, with parties like NUP, FDC, DP, UPC, Justice Forum, and Peoples Progressive Party.
The NRM’s dominance in Parliament, along with support from a few Independents and UPDF members, gives them a significant majority that allows them to pass legislation without much opposition interference. This leaves the Opposition as a moral voice without much power to prevent the NRM government from achieving its goals, whether good or bad.
Despite the promises made by the Opposition during elections to fight against corruption and improve social and economic services, the reality of working within a system where the government holds the resources becomes apparent. Members of Parliament often find themselves pressured by constituents to provide services that the government should be delivering, leading to financial strain and potential re-election concerns.
Opposition MPs face the dilemma of prioritizing their constituents’ demands for basic needs while also navigating the political landscape created by the government’s power dynamics. Some MPs may choose to align themselves with the government or adopt a more passive approach to avoid controversy and secure personal gains.
The compromised position of some Opposition MPs, who prioritize personal benefits over their oversight role, reflects Orwell’s Animal Farm allegory, where those who once fought against oppression end up mirroring their former oppressors. The blurred lines between NRM and Opposition MPs highlight the pervasive issue of corruption within Parliament that extends beyond party lines.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by the Opposition in Parliament highlight the complex dynamics of power, patronage, and corruption that hinder effective governance in Uganda. The need for genuine accountability and transparency within the political system is essential to ensure that elected representatives serve the interests of the people rather than self-interest.
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