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Tayebwa sarcastically suggested that some critics might expect Parliament to send Kilak North MP Anthony Akol to "raid Luzira" and rescue Besigye to prove that Parliament is taking action
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By Our Reporter
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has ridiculed Ugandans who criticize Parliament for its perceived inaction regarding the plight of former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye, who is currently detained at Luzira Prison. Tayebwa sarcastically suggested that some critics might expect Parliament to send Kilak North MP Anthony Akol to "raid Luzira" and rescue Besigye to prove that Parliament is taking action.
MP Akol recently beat MP Zaake
Speaking during a parliamentary session, Tayebwa expressed frustration with those accusing Parliament of silence. “It is very unfortunate that we give you a platform to speak, and then you use it to accuse Parliament of not speaking. But who speaks for Parliament? It is you,” Tayebwa said. He mockingly proposed sending Anthony Akol, who has been implicated in physical altercations in Parliament, to rescue Besigye. However, he reconsidered, quipping, “Ohh sorry, not Akol, Akol is a dangerous one we shouldn’t involve him. I will send Francis Zaake (Mityana Municipality).”
Concerns over Dr. Besigye’s welfare
The discussion also highlighted concerns about Dr. Besigye's well-being, particularly reports of him being denied food from his family. Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition, emphasized the urgency of addressing Besigye's plight to prevent further harm.
“Are we waiting for you to announce that Besigye is no longer with us and then observe a moment of silence? We have let down too many people; let us not let down Dr. Kizza Besigye,” Ssenyonyi urged.
Accusations against NRM's Human Rights stance
Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda criticized the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) for what he described as a lack of interest in addressing human rights violations. Ssemujju cited recent cases, including the arrest of Busiki County MP Paul Akamba, as evidence of government overreach.
“When we are talking about matters of human rights, I see no appetite from the NRM to participate. The tendency, from my experience here, is for our colleagues in the NRM to think violations are limited to us,” Ssemujju said.
Ssemujju also pointed out that a statement regarding Besigye’s alleged kidnapping in Nairobi months ago has yet to be brought to Parliament.
Call for accountability
The lawmakers called on government ministers, particularly the Attorney General, to take their responsibilities seriously. Ssemujju lamented the lack of accountability from Cabinet ministers.
“So why are you in government if you are of no value to Parliament? Today you are all seated, wait for your day,” Ssemujju warned.
Torch Media Africa
