Kampala | Monday, July 6, 2026
By Eye Media Reporter
Kibuku County MP Dennis Namara has announced that he will on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, formally seek leave of Parliament to introduce a Bill aimed at changing the manner in which the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Parliament is appointed.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Namara said the proposed amendment to the Parliament (Administration) Act, 2006 seeks to replace the current arrangement under which the Leader of the Opposition is appointed by the largest opposition party.
Instead, the legislator proposes that the Leader of the Opposition be elected by all Members of Parliament belonging to opposition political parties together with Independent MPs.
According to Namara, the proposed reform is intended to strengthen democratic governance within Parliament and enhance the legitimacy of the office.
“The proposed amendment seeks to revise the provisions governing the appointment and removal of the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. Specifically, it proposes that the Leader of the Opposition be elected by Members of Parliament belonging to opposition parties together with Independent Members, rather than being appointed through the current arrangement,” he stated.
He added that the amendment would strengthen democratic representation, improve accountability and ensure that whoever occupies the office of the Leader of the Opposition enjoys the confidence of opposition and Independent legislators.
The proposal, if granted leave by Parliament, is expected to ignite debate over the structure of Uganda’s parliamentary opposition, with supporters arguing it would democratise the selection process, while critics may contend that it could weaken the mandate of the largest opposition party.
Under the current law and parliamentary practice, the Leader of the Opposition is appointed by the political party with the largest numerical strength among opposition parties represented in Parliament.
Namara’s proposed Bill now awaits Parliament’s consideration when he formally seeks leave to introduce it on Wednesday.
