In a bold declaration, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Mathias Mpuuga, has refused to be intimidated by Speaker Anita Among's recent threats, asserting that the Opposition will stand their ground. Speaking at a press conference held at Parliament, Mpuuga emphasized that the travel per diem allowances for MPs cannot be equated to the gravity of lives lost and individuals gone missing.
Criticizing Speaker Among's directive on the Opposition's boycott as a diversionary tactic, Mpuuga asserted that his side would not engage in a verbal sparring match with the Speaker, highlighting her role as an impartial mediator between the conflicting factions.
"We view these threats as mere diversions, but fortunately, we are resolute in our cause. No constituency elected an MP based on their athletic or football skills. As political leaders, we understand these distractions, but we will not be swayed. Our humble plea to the Speaker, as a neutral arbiter, is to follow through with her order to the executive," stated Mpuuga.
In response to the recent directives from Speaker Among, Mpuuga dismissed them as a diversionary tactic, reiterating that the Opposition's ongoing boycott of plenary proceedings will persist until they receive a satisfactory response to their demands concerning gross human rights violations and the disappearance of 18 individuals.
Speaker Among, however, issued further instructions to the Clerk of Parliament, stating that MPs who boycott plenary sittings will not be allowed to participate in committees or travel abroad. She reminded legislators of their duty to serve the nation and emphasized that disciplinary actions were not an attack on the party but held individuals accountable.
"Your responsibility is to serve the nation. If you cannot fulfill your duty by attending the House sessions, the Rules will be enforced. When we take disciplinary action against an individual, it is not an attack on the party; it holds the person accountable," explained Among.
Despite the Speaker's warnings, Mpuuga stood firm, maintaining that the Opposition would continue their boycott until their concerns were addressed.
