Kole North County Member of Parliament, Samuel Opio, has rejected a proposal by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, to establish an upper legislative chamber.
Minister Mao recently suggested the creation of a Senate composed of senior and elderly legislators operating separately from the current Parliament, arguing that such a body would improve the quality of legislation and parliamentary debate, which he says has declined under the existing system.
According to Mao, an upper chamber would offer experienced oversight, sober reflection, and higher standards of debate, thereby strengthening Uganda’s legislative process.
However, MP Opio strongly disagreed, contending that the establishment of a Senate would not address the fundamental challenges affecting governance and legislation in the country.
He argued that as long as the current political regime and executive remain in power, any additional legislative body including a Senate, would still be vulnerable to compromise and political influence.
Opio further noted that creating an upper chamber would impose an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers.
He instead called for efforts to focus on strengthening existing institutions and ensuring independence, accountability, and adherence to democratic principles, rather than expanding the size of the legislature.
By Our reporter
10th Feb 2026
END
