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Tororo Woman MP Sarah Opend
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Tororo Woman MP Sarah Opendi has openly criticized Bugweri County MP Abdu Katuntu, accusing him of monopolizing key positions in Parliament. This comes after a difficult day for Opendi, where her censure motion against four commissioners was dismissed by the courts, and her Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023 was rejected by Parliament. Opendi, a member of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), expressed frustration over Katuntu's multiple roles, stating, "Abdu Katuntu is the chair of the Rules Committee and also represents this Parliament in the Pan-African Parliament. Don't we have other Independents who can chair the Rules Committee?"
She questioned the fairness of allowing one person to hold multiple significant roles in a Parliament of over 500 members, suggesting that responsibilities should be shared more equitably.
Abdu Katuntu
Katuntu's Response
In response, Katuntu dismissed Opendi's accusations with humor, suggesting that Opendi might have desired the role of Rules Committee chair herself. He defended his positions, citing his extensive experience and legal background. "I hold those positions because I am qualified," Katuntu explained. "I am one of the longest-serving Members of Parliament and a lawyer. The NRM endorsed me for these roles because of my qualifications."
He further highlighted his experience as a founding member of the Pan-African Parliament, stating that both roles require technical expertise and experience, which he and fellow MP Okot Ogong possess.
Katuntu's response underscored his belief that his qualifications and experience justify his roles in Parliament, despite Opendi's concerns.
