By Our Reporter
Members of Parliament have been warned against the vice of taking bribes, as it may not only taint their image as people’s representatives but also the image of Parliament.
During their induction held in Kampala, it was revealed that some members ask for bribes in order to sign committee reports.
This induction is part of the intervention towards continuous improvement in the quality of output and overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Legislature as an institution.
Speaking at the event, the speaker of Parliament, Anitah Among told MPs that as role models in the society, they must work safeguard their image in everything that they do because many people are watching how they behave and legislate.
“I implore you to work together in unity, irrespective of political parties, gender, religion and ethnic groups. This should be a uniting Parliament that is aimed at ensuring that they deliver what is expected of them, “he said.
She noted that democracy demands self-discipline at all levels, tolerance to varying views, especially in the August House, adding that she wants the 11th Parliament to be the best Parliament in the history of Uganda.
“By the end of the 11th Parliament, we should have a legacy as one of the most efficient, effective, responsive and pro-people Parliament. We have always talked about people-centered Parliament. We must walk the talk and we must achieve it, “she asserted.
Among called on MPs to conduct research to enrich input in the legislative process.
“Your input should be evidence based and reports should have quantitative and qualitative research, “she guided.
Justine Lumumba Kasule, the Minister in charge of General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, asked MPs to ensure that they speak on the floor of Parliament, adding that nothing will be said of them in regards to performance if they do not speak in the house.
Lumumba asked MPs to guard against corruption, saying corruption is eating up some MPs.
“An MP says for me to sign a committee report; they must bring something here. Don’t cheapen yourselves, keep Parliament high, “she said.
She asked committee chairpersons to use the carrot and stick method in running their affairs. “Don’t put names of MPs who do not attend committee meetings for travel abroad, give those who are active in committees”, Lumumba said.
Former woman MP Serere, Alice Alaso tipped MPs of 11th Parliament on Committee work, saying that committees are the best entry points for specific matters of interest in constituencies.
She also urged the MPs to use committees to learn and perfect their debating skills.
