Speaker Anita Among has issued a formal apology following an altercation in Parliament on Wednesday involving Mityana Municipality MP Francis Zaake and Kilak North MP Anthony Akol.
Zaake was reportedly beaten up by Akol after a heated argument over a sitting spot in the Chambers. The incident caused a stir in the House, prompting Speaker Among to express regret over the treatment of Zaake.
“I want to register my apology for what happened to our colleague sincerely; that wasn’t called for. What happened to Zaake wasn’t called for,” said Among during a press briefing.
She condemned the violence and emphasized the need for decorum and respect among lawmakers. The Speaker referenced Rule 89, which grants the Speaker the authority to address issues of misconduct by MPs.
“Following what transpired to Zaake this morning in the House, I will refer to Rule 89, which states that if the Speaker considers that the conduct of the member can’t be adequately dealt with, he/she may name the members,” Among added.
The altercation unfolded after Zaake and Akol clashed over Zaake’s sitting arrangement. Tensions had been running high throughout the session, which was already contentious due to debates surrounding the Coffee Amendment Bill.
Zaake’s apology and the Speaker’s strong stance on the issue underscore the growing concerns over violence and the breakdown of order in Parliament, urging for better conflict resolution within the House.Zaake has since been rushed to hospital for medical attention.
It’s the second time Zaake i getting punched during heated parliamentary sessions. During the contentious age limit removal in 2017, Minister Gen Katumba threw one single punch which sent Zaake into ICU for weeks, he later apologized to Zaake and even checked on him in hospital.It’s also the second time MP Anthony Akol is punching a fellow MP at parliament, in July 2020, he rained heavy blows on Aruu county legislator Odonga Oto when the two had an argument.
Speaker Anita Among has since suspended 12 Member of parliament for three consecutive sittings. These include Zaake and Akol. The others Frank Kabuye, Isiah Sasaga, Asinansi Nyakato, Suzan Mugabi, Derrick Nyeko, Evans Kanyike, Shamim Malende, Charles Tebandeke, Wakayima Musoke and Aloysius Mukasa.