New Members of Parliament have been cautioned against missing parliamentary sittings without formal authorisation, with Parliament warning that prolonged absenteeism could lead to loss of their legislative seats.
The warning was issued by the Clerk to Parliament, Mr Adolf Mwesige Kasaija, during an orientation session for incoming legislators, where he underscored that attendance is a core constitutional duty of every lawmaker.
Mwesige reminded MPs that under the Rules of Procedure of Parliament of Uganda, any legislator who misses 15 consecutive sittings without written permission from the Speaker risks being declared to have vacated their seat.
“You risk losing your legislative seat if you miss 15 consecutive parliamentary sittings without written permission from the Speaker,” Mwesige said.
He emphasised that attendance is not a formality but a legal obligation tied directly to the responsibilities of representation, lawmaking, and oversight.
“The duty of an MP is not symbolic. It is anchored in attendance, participation, and accountability to the people who elected you,” he noted.
Parliament officials further explained that Members of Parliament are required to formally seek approval from the Speaker in cases of unavoidable absence, including official assignments, illness, or other justified circumstances.
The guidance comes as the Parliament of Uganda continues to reinforce attendance monitoring systems aimed at improving discipline and efficiency in legislative business.
In recent years, parliamentary leadership has raised concern over repeated absenteeism, which has at times disrupted plenary sessions and slowed down the processing of government business.
Officials maintain that consistent attendance is essential for effective parliamentary performance, warning that failure to comply with established rules may attract disciplinary measures, including possible loss of office in line with parliamentary procedures.