A group of students from Makerere University, hailing from Rakai District, has submitted a formal request to the Parliament regarding the mental health evaluation of Mityana Municipality MP, Mr. Francis Zaake. The students argue that his recent behavior and conduct do not reflect a sound state of mind.
The petition was handed over through Mr. James Guma, who serves as the Secretary General of the Rakai District Students Association. It was addressed to Deputy Speaker Mr. Thomas Tayebwa’s office.
The students’ concern stems from the reported actions and language employed by Mr. Zaake towards Rakai District Woman MP, Ms. Juliet Kinyamatama, during Independence Day celebrations.
Mr. Guma explained their stance by stating, “We all know that the country is built on one of the strongest institutions which are families; therefore, such tarnishing remarks catalyze domestic violence, breaking down families, which consequently leads to the breakdown of the country.”
In response to these concerns, the Parliament’s Rules Privileges and Discipline Committee has scheduled the commencement of an inquiry into the allegations against Mr. Zaake for the upcoming Friday. The committee chairperson, Mr. Abdu Katuntu, announced that they aim to resolve the matter within 14 days and are in communication with all relevant parties.
Previously, Mr. Tayebwa had referred the issue to the committee, giving them a 45-day window to address the matter. However, an altercation during a parliamentary session prompted an unusual adjournment by Mr. Tayebwa, as some female MPs reportedly attempted to confront Mr. Zaake.
The incident leading to the request for a mental health evaluation occurred when Ms. Kinyamatama raised a point of procedure, urging Parliament to take action against Mr. Zaake for allegedly making defamatory statements about her. The incident was triggered by a video played in the House, which appeared to depict Mr. Zaake insulting Rakai Woman MP Juliet Kinyamatama.
