MPs back proposed rules on dress code

A section of Members of Parliament (MPs), including Michael Mawanda of Igara East, have expressed support for proposed stricter rules regarding MPs’ attire during parliamentary sittings.

This follows proposed amendments to the MPs’ rules of procedure and dress code by the Committee on Rules, Privileges, and Discipline.

The committee’s report, presented to Parliament by its chairperson, Abdul Katuntu, proposes banning traditional attire like the gomesi and kanzu, which some MPs have reportedly used to conceal inappropriate dress.

The committee also noted that it is inappropriate for MPs representing the armed forces to wear combat uniforms during parliamentary proceedings, as this attire evokes a battlefield setting.

In response, MP Michael Mawanda of Igara East endorsed the committee’s recommendations, stating that some of his colleagues have abused the current dress code.

“It is important that we really put on as Members of Parliament with dignity because in our earlier roles, the traditional wear was allowed in Parliament but people have used that as an excuse to simply put on the way they want,” Mawanda said.

He noted that it has been difficult for the Speaker, as the presiding officer, to determine whether an MP is dressed inappropriately or is wearing traditional attire.

Written by Prossy Kisakye