Uganda plans opposition leader election by all MPs
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on The Observer
A Ugandan bill provides for all opposition MPs to elect the leader representing them in Parliament, rather than leaving the choice to the main opposition party. The text would also strengthen their role in approving the shadow cabinet and removal procedures, according to The Observer.
A Ugandan bill provides for all opposition MPs to elect the leader of the opposition in Parliament, rather than leaving the choice to the opposition party with the largest number of seats. The text, entitled the Administration of Parliament (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was published in the Official Gazette on 23 October, according to The Observer.
The bill also provides for the shadow cabinet, which monitors government ministers’ portfolios, to be submitted for approval by opposition MPs. It would extend consultations to opposition parties, political organisations and independent elected representatives for appointments to parliamentary leadership positions.
The MP for Buyaga West, Dennis Namara, proposed the bill. He believes the current system limits the participation of elected representatives from other parties and independents in choosing the person responsible for scrutinising the executive’s actions. The text would also add misconduct, incompetence and physical or mental incapacity to the grounds for removing the leader of the opposition, who would have to leave office three months after the law enters into force before a new election.
