By Joseph Kiggundu
KAMPALA — Parliament has approved a government proposal authorising the deployment of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) to the Gaza Strip as part of an international stabilisation mission aimed at supporting peace and humanitarian efforts in the Middle East.
The motion was tabled by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Oboth Oboth? Wait. Need correct minister. User says Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka. Use that. Continue.
The motion was tabled by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, during a plenary sitting chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa on Thursday, 6 August 2026.
Kiwanuka sought Parliament’s approval under the Constitution and the UPDF Act, arguing that the deployment was consistent with Uganda’s constitutional obligations and international commitments.
He said the proposed mission would operate under strict humanitarian principles, with Ugandan troops expected to remain neutral, comply with international humanitarian law, protect civilians and avoid involvement in political disputes.
According to the minister, Uganda’s participation in the multinational force established following United Nations Security Council Resolution 2788 (2025) would contribute to peace and stability in Gaza while strengthening Uganda’s international standing.
Despite eventually approving the motion, several legislators raised concerns about the procedure followed and called for stronger parliamentary oversight of Uganda’s expanding peacekeeping commitments.
Chief Opposition Whip Paul Mwiru, speaking on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition, said MPs needed more time to study the proposal and consult technical officers before taking a decision.
“This is a matter with significant consequences, and Parliament should have adequate time to examine it,” Mwiru said.
Deputy Speaker Tayebwa acknowledged that the motion had been submitted earlier and that its omission from the Order Paper had been an oversight. He said the matter required urgent consideration because decisions relating to the international mission were expected over the weekend.
John Baptist Nambeshe (NUP, Manjiya County) said Parliament should first receive reports on ongoing UPDF deployments in countries such as the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and South Sudan before approving another mission.
He noted that operations in Gaza present unique challenges because of the difficulty in distinguishing combatants from civilians in urban warfare.
Patrick Nsamba (NUP, Kassanda County North) also cautioned against rushing a decision involving the deployment of Ugandan soldiers to what he described as a highly dangerous environment.
Joseph Ssewungu (NUP, Kalungu County West) criticised the manner in which the motion was processed, saying the Opposition had not been given sufficient time to prepare. He added that Parliament should have been briefed on troop welfare, expected benefits of the mission and support arrangements for soldiers’ families.
Defending the deployment, UPDF representative Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko said Uganda should be proud of the international recognition accorded to the force, describing the UPDF as a key stabilising force in the region.
John Bosco Tumusiime (NRM, Kashari South County) argued that participation in international peace operations improves the professionalism and operational skills of the UPDF.
Another UPDF representative, Maj. Gen. David Gonyi, said Uganda had both a moral and diplomatic responsibility to support efforts aimed at restoring peace in Gaza.
Seconding the motion, Minister of State for Public Service Lydia Wanyoto said Uganda had earned an international reputation as a contributor to global peace and security and should continue participating in peace support missions.
Following debate, Parliament approved the motion, clearing the way for the UPDF deployment once the operational arrangements of the stabilisation mission are finalised.