By Eumu Emmanuel
A heated debate on the National Coffee Amendment Bill, 2024, turned violent in the Ugandan Parliament yesterday, forcing Speaker Anita Among to suspend the session for 30 minutes. The chaos began when Francis Zaake, MP for Mityana Municipality, raised concerns about a suspected gunman in the chambers, an area restricted to non-members
Zaake’s alarm was likely fueled by his past experience with firearms in the House. Despite the sergeant-at-arms confirming no gun was present, Zaake insisted on searching for the alleged weapon himself, leading to a physical altercation with Amuru South MP Anthony Akol.
The situation quickly escalated into a full-blown brawl, disrupting the session and prompting the speaker’s intervention. The tension was already palpable as members prepared to vote on the divisive coffee bill.
The National Coffee Amendment Bill, 2024: A Contested Proposal
The bill, introduced by Minister of Agriculture Frank Tumwebaze, seeks to dissolve the Coffee Development Authority and transfer its functions to the Ministry of Agriculture. Proponents argue this change aligns with the government’s policy on rationalizing public expenditure.
However, opponents, including some MPs and farmers, fear the move will undermine the coffee industry’s growth and compromise farmers’ interests. With emotions running high, it remains to be seen how the debate will unfold.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.