Deputy Speaker of the 11th Parliament of Uganda, Thomas Tayebwa, has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs) and ministers against what he described as ‘perpetual absenteeism’.

Tayebwa was presiding over the House this afternoon when he said: “If you miss 15 sittings, then you risk losing your seat.”

The lawmaker further instructed the Clerk to Parliament to resume registration of all MPs.

“I instruct Clerk to resume registration of all MPs in every sitting. If you miss 15 sittings then you risk losing your seat,” Tayebwa said.

How can a Member of Parliament be removed

According to Article (83) of the Constitution, a Member of Parliament may lose his or her seat in any of the following instances—

  • On resignation in writing to the Speaker;
  • If he or she subsequently ceases to qualify to be a Member of Parliament;
  • If he or she is absent from 15 sittings without permission of the Speaker;
  • If he or she is found guilty of violation of the Leadership Code of Conduct;
  • If he or she joins another party or leaves the party and decides to remain an Independent member;
  • If a member was elected as an independent and joins a party; or
  • On appointment as a public officer.