In a parliamentary session chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Mityana Municipality MP Francis Zaake, a member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has been referred to the Rules, Privileges, and Discipline Committee over allegations of misconduct. This marks the second time that Zaake has faced such a referral.
The decision to refer Zaake to the disciplinary committee was made based on Rule 91 (1) of the Rules of Procedure, which allows a presiding officer to refer defamatory statements to the committee. Abdul Kantuntu chairs this committee.
Zaake’s alleged misconduct stems from an October 9, 2023, video in which he was heard making derogatory remarks about Rakai District Woman MP Juliet Kinyamatama Ssuubi in her political stronghold. The video, circulating on social media, showed him criticizing the electorate’s choice of Kinyamatama.
During the parliamentary session, Kinyamatama described the video’s contents as highly demeaning and offensive. However, opposition members raised objections to investigating matters outside the Parliament’s premises, arguing that it could set an undesirable precedent.
Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Semujju Nganda (FDC) expressed concerns about the parliamentary rules and the need for decorum within the Parliament. This prompted a brief adjournment to pacify the members.
Upon resuming the session, it was agreed that the video would be played and the matter addressed. Despite objections from some members who found the video’s content unpleasant, the decision to proceed with the video presentation was upheld.
Gorette Namugga (Mawogola South, NUP) attempted to halt the video’s screening to maintain the dignity and decorum of the House. However, her request was overruled, and the video was played for all to see.
This development marks the second instance in which MP Zaake has been referred to the disciplinary committee for alleged misconduct. The matter will be investigated by the Rules, Privileges, and Discipline Committee, and they have up to 45 days to respond to the issue as per Rule 175 of the Parliament’s Rules of Procedure.
