Parliamentary Chaos Erupts in Uganda Over Seat Dispute.

Uganda’s House of Representatives erupted into chaos when a physical altercation broke out between Mityana Municipality MP Francis Zaake and Kilak North MP Anthony Akol. The incident, centered around a seat dispute during discussions on the controversial National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024, escalated rapidly, capturing the nation’s attention and raising concerns about security within Uganda’s legislative chambers.

The confrontation unfolded as MPs were intensely debating amendments to the coffee sector regulations. What began as a heated verbal exchange quickly devolved into a brawl, with Akol reportedly throwing multiple punches at Zaake, ultimately knocking him to the floor. The disturbance disrupted the debate, throwing the chamber into an uproar and forcing Speaker Anita Among to vacate the chamber for her own safety. However, she returned shortly afterward to address the fallout and announced the suspension of 12 MPs implicated in the incident.

MP Zaake, who had previously voiced security concerns about his safety within the parliamentary precincts, sustained injuries and was rushed to the hospital for medical attention following the altercation. In response to the incident, parliamentary authorities swiftly tightened security, a move that underscores the heightened tensions and concerns over safety within the institution.

The incident underscores the brewing tensions surrounding the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024. This legislation has ignited strong opinions among lawmakers, given its potential impact on Uganda's coffee industry, a critical sector for the country’s economy. While debates on contentious bills often lead to fierce discourse, the sight of MPs engaging in a physical fight has raised questions about professionalism, discipline, and conflict resolution within the legislative assembly.

This recent brawl marks one of the most disruptive incidents in recent Ugandan parliamentary history, spotlighting the need for enhanced decorum and discipline. With the suspension of 12 MPs and increased security, Ugandans now await further proceedings with a renewed awareness of the fragility of peace within the chambers that shape their nation’s future.