In a dramatic turn of events, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has stirred the pot by suspending five opposition MPs from attending parliamentary sittings for three days. The suspended legislators, including Betty Nambooze (Mukono Municipality), Joyce Bagala (Mityana woman MP), Derrick Nyeko (MP Makindye East), Frank Kabuye (MP Kassanda South), and Francis Zaake (Mityana Municipality MP), were shown the exit over alleged indiscipline.
The political theater unfolded as the government unveiled a report concerning the controversial manhandling of Robert Kyagulanyi, the charismatic leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP). The air in Parliament grew thick with tension, and it seemed that the opposition camp was on the brink of chaos as they convened to discuss the contentious matter.
Security forces were on high alert, preparing for a potentially fiery showdown during the Tuesday proceedings in Parliament.
In an unexpected twist, Jonathan Odur, MP for Erute South, raised alarms about suspected plain-clothed security operatives inside the parliamentary chambers, claiming they were armed. Firearms are strictly prohibited within Parliament, and Odur implored the Sergeant at Arms to ensure these individuals vacated the premises.
Deputy Speaker Tayebwa was forced to adjourn Parliament yet again as MPs couldn't reach a consensus on whether to screen a video submitted by the opposition, purportedly revealing evidence of police brutality against NUP supporters.
Just as the Deputy Speaker was about to put the video to a vote, Parliament was plunged into darkness as the electricity vanished. The generator quickly saved the day.
Utilizing Rule 89(4), Tayebwa exercised his authority to suspend the five MPs for three days. This rule dictates escalating suspension periods for recurrent offenses.
Earlier in the session, Tayebwa had to halt proceedings for 10 minutes due to the mysterious disappearance of the staff member responsible for playing the opposition's video evidence. This video aimed to shed light on alleged security force brutality against NUP supporters.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has suspended five MPs from the house, and they will be barred from attending three consecutive sittings. These MPs are Betty Nambooze, Joyce Bagala, Derrick Nyeko, Frank Kabuye, and Francis Zaake. pic.twitter.com/wHoq7vq1cs
— Stellah N. Ssendagire (@snandawula_) October 17, 2023
