(Kampala) – Mathias Mpuuga, the immediate former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament (LOP) and Nyendo-Mukungwe MP, has expressed optimism regarding the Ugandan government’s ability to enact electoral and constitutional reforms before the 2026 general elections.
Mpuuga, who also serves as a parliamentary commissioner, stated in a recent interview with a local TV station that there is still time to table and implement the proposed reforms. He emphasized that a genuine commitment to reform would make timely action possible.
“Where there is will, there is also enough time,” Mpuuga remarked during the interview on Tuesday, November 5. “The talk about time is really a matter of fostering good faith. With commitment, formal and informal channels can be used to find the time required.”
Mpuuga had previously taken formal steps to advance his proposals for reform. On October 4, he wrote to the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, requesting the opportunity to present his proposed reforms aimed at improving Uganda’s political system. His suggestions have yet to be placed on the Order Paper, which is the official agenda for Parliament’s daily business.
In his interview, Mpuuga explained that the Speaker’s Office indicated they were still looking to allocate time on the crowded Order Paper. Recent Parliamentary sessions have been occupied with bills related to the government’s Policy for Rationalisation of Government Agencies and Public Expenditure.
Despite the delay, Mpuuga remains hopeful. “I am patient. I still believe there is time to have this [constitutional amendment] work done,” he said. “I plan to follow up again once Parliament reconvenes.”
The Parliament is set to resume on Wednesday, November 6, when it will continue debating the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024—a piece of legislation that has sparked considerable discussion.
Among Mpuuga’s proposed reforms are significant changes to Uganda’s political framework, including the reintroduction of Presidential term limits, the establishment of an Upper House in Parliament, the creation of a Deputy President position to serve as a running mate for Presidential candidates, and the introduction of proportional representation in elections.
The reforms Mpuuga advocates are extensive and intended to reshape Uganda’s political landscape. Key proposals include:
| Proposed Reform | Details |
|---|---|
| Restoration of Presidential Term Limits | Reintroducing term limits for the presidential office |
| Creation of an Upper House | Establishing a bicameral parliamentary system |
| Establishment of Deputy President Role | Introducing the position as a running mate during presidential elections |
| Proportional Representation | Adjusting representation to reflect a more proportionate system |
Mpuuga and his supporters claim these changes could strengthen democratic governance and improve political stability in Uganda.
