In what is viewed as early caucusing , the Government Chief Whip,Mr Denis Hamson Obua, has summoned all members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus for a ‘special meeting’ today morning.
The 9:30am meeting in the Conference Hall of the Office of the President is a must attend for all ruling party legislators.
While the official notice frames the event as a “Special Meeting” to “handle business of the day,” party insiders suggest the primary agenda is to build a unified party position ahead of the much-anticipated tabling of the Protection Sovereignty Bill in Parliament later that afternoon. The Chief Whip’s communication also reminded members of a subsequent plenary sitting starting at 2pm, emphasizing the need for physical attendance.
The Protection of Sovereignty Bill has become a focal point of national debate, with proponents arguing it is essential for protecting national interests while critics voice concerns over its potential impact on international relations.
By convening the caucus just hours before the legislative session, the NRM leadership aims to ensure “party discipline” and iron out any internal dissent before the floor debate begins.
Mr Obua’s notice was copied to President and Chairperson of the NRM Party, Yoweri Museveni; the Vice President, Jessica Alupo; the Prime Minister Robina Nabbanja, and the NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong.
The NRM holds a significant majority in the August House, and a solidified caucus position usually guarantees a smooth passage for government-backed legislation.
However, Ugandans will be watching closely today morning to see if the party can achieve total consensus on the contentious Bill before the bells ring for the afternoon plenary.