The 11th Parliament, under Speaker Anita Among, has significantly minimized international travel, emphasizing efficient handling of official duties. Despite recent false claims regarding her alleged two-month holiday pay, it’s important to clarify that the Speaker, like other specified public officials, is entitled to a one-month holiday.
However, due to work commitments, she hasn’t taken leave since becoming Deputy Speaker and subsequently Speaker. The exception was her one-month maternity leave in October 2023. Her dedication to reducing international travel sets an example for the Parliament, ensuring efficient processing of official business.
By December 2023, the 11th Parliament had held 257 sittings, passed 75 bills, adopted 109 resolutions, passed 14 motions, granted 27 Private Members leave to introduce bills, and processed and adopted 126 reports. In response to allegations, Speaker Among reaffirms her entitlement to paid leave but rejects exaggerated figures aimed at tarnishing her reputation. The challenge lies in combating misinformation propagated by online crusaders, whose agenda seems more about political point-scoring than genuine accountability.
By John Cliff Magambo
