Speaker Among demands govt to set-up disaster commission

By Francis Lubega

4^th May 2023

Parliament has on Thursday afternoon taken a moment of silence to remember and console with those who lost their loved ones in the recent disasters.

Parliament has paid tribute to the victims of mudslides in the Kigezi region.

Reports indicate that the death toll has risen to 18 since the mudslides hit the region following the heavy downpour that started on Tuesday night to Wednesday morning.

Six people died in Biizi and Gihuyaga villages in Murora sub-county, three in Kashyambya and Rwamucucu Sub Counties in Rukiga district, and three others in Rubanda district.

On Wednesday, the bodies of three people Kevin Ahereza 2, Vastinah Perceiver,7, and Jeninah Twikiriize,36 all residents of Rwamahano village in Ikamiro Muko Sub County, in Rubanda district were recovered by residents.

While chairing the house on Thursday afternoon, the Speaker of Parliament Anita Among summoned the Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees Hilary Onek to present a report to parliament indicating the government short and long term plans in addressing disasters.

Speaker Among also reiterated the urgency by the government to set up a disaster commission which would liaise with district disaster committees as required by the constitution.