Ugandan Speaker Among Recognized for Advocating African Traditions

Last updated: January 3, 2024 11:35 am

By Evelyn Atim

Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Alban Bagbin, praised Ugandan Speaker Anita Among for her positive impact on supporting African values and traditions. This commendation took place during a bilateral meeting at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort Hotel in Kampala, coinciding with the commencement of the three-day 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) on January 3, 2024.

Bagbin emphasized the need for international collaboration among Parliaments worldwide, emphasizing mutual respect for diverse value systems instead of resorting to blackmail and intimidation. This statement was released by the Ugandan Parliament on Tuesday.

Among, in response, urged African Parliaments to collaborate closely for the advancement of the continent. Emphasizing shared challenges and opportunities, she underscored the importance of unity among Parliaments across Africa.

On March 21, 2023, Parliament, led by Among, unanimously passed the Anti-Homosexuality Bill, 2023, imposing severe penalties for same-sex relationships. Despite being signed into law by President Yoweri Museveni on May 26, 2023, the bill has faced legal challenges in the Constitutional Court.

Established in 1969 by Lucien Lamoureux, then Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada, CSPOC’s membership is restricted to the Speakers and Presiding Officers of national parliaments of independent sovereign states within the Commonwealth. It comprises 22 bicameral parliaments and 30 unicameral parliaments.

Abdu Katuntu, the chairperson of the co-ordination committee and Bugweri County MP, highlighted Uganda’s commitment to fostering cooperation with other parliaments. This collaboration aims to create alliances and ultimately strengthen diplomatic ties with participating countries.

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