Parliament was thrown into chaos today as opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) stormed out of the chambers, refusing to take part in the debate on the controversial UPDF Amendment Bill 2025.
The walkout happened during a heated session where the bill, which seeks to make changes to the operations and leadership structure of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), was scheduled for debate. The opposition MPs expressed deep frustration, accusing the responsible committee of denying the public enough time to study and give feedback on the bill.
“This is not democracy. You cannot rush such an important bill without listening to the people it affects,” said one opposition MP just before leaving the chamber. The lawmakers insist that the voices of citizens, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders must be heard before any decisions are made.
According to the MPs, the committee in charge of the bill allowed very limited public consultation, and many groups that wanted to make submissions were left out. Some had prepared reports and presentations, but were reportedly told there was “no time” to accommodate them.
The UPDF Amendment Bill 2025 has already stirred public interest due to its sensitive nature. It is believed to include proposals that could increase the power of the army leadership and reduce parliamentary oversight. Some worry this could weaken checks and balances and give the military more influence in civilian matters.
Speaker of Parliament, who was presiding over the session, called for calm and urged the opposition to return and express their concerns in debate. However, the MPs refused to budge, saying they would not take part in what they described as an unfair and rushed process.
The government side appeared determined to push forward with the bill despite the walkout, but some ruling party MPs were also seen quietly expressing concerns about the way the process has been handled.
As the debate continues without opposition input, many are now questioning the transparency of the legislative process and what this means for Uganda’s democracy. Civil society groups have also joined the call for wider consultation, warning that passing the bill without public involvement could lead to widespread mistrust.
This is a developing story, and it remains to be seen whether the walkout will pressure the committee to reopen public submissions or if the bill will proceed as is.
Stay tuned for updates.
