Former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga has ‘refused’ to vacate office after her term expired.
Yesterday, Kadaga swore in as an MP of the 11th parliament meaning her membership of the 10 th parliament ceased.
In fact, there is no Speaker of the 11th parliament yet but Kadaga continues to reportedly abuse public resources by commandeering a parliamentary convoy illegally. It has just been spotted with a lead car as she went to express her interest at the NRM offices.
Further, Deputy Speaker Jacob Oulanyah who will swear in tomorrow, handed over government facilities he was enjoying by virtue of the office of deputy speaker.
Being conversant with the law and while respecting public resources, Oulanyah handed over to the Clerk to Parliament who by law is in charge in the absence of the parliamentary commission.
“Just handed over gov’t things that I got by virtue of the Office of the DSP. Today is my last day as an MP per article 77:3 of the constitution and per article 82:7(d), I cease being DSP. It has been a great experience,one of many lessons and growth. An absolute honor to have served,” Oulanyah tweeted.
However, sources say Kadaga continues to draw fuel from parliamentary commission and has parked 7 vehicles in her compound.
Lawyers say if true, this is in contravention of the law and abuse of public resources.
Kadaga is facing stiff competition from Oulanyah and all odds are that she will be defeated.
The NRM CEC has flatly rejected her and she is reportedly drawing resources from parliamentary commission to help fund her campaigns.
“Oulanyah has set a good tone. Leaders must learn to respect public offices. If your term is up , it’s up,” a constitutional lawyer said on condition of anonymity.
“She is no longer speaker therefore her continued use of parliamentary resources is illegally and disrespectful. This woman often postures to hold government to account and yet she can’t account for small things as parliamentary convoy,” the lawyers said.