Matembe eyes African Parliament

Nov 21, 2003

FORMER ethics minister Miria Matembe is among at least four MPs vying to be elected to the Pan-African Parliament

By John Kakande

FORMER ethics minister Miria Matembe is among at least four MPs vying to be elected to the Pan-African Parliament.

The parliament, which will have five members from each country, has not yet found a home. Libya, Egypt and South Africa are aggressively lobbying to host it.

MPs Matembe, Abdu Katuntu (Bugweri), Mike Kennedy Ssebalu (Busiro East) and Betty Amongi (Apac) yesterday confirmed their intention to contest for the seats.

“The pan-African parliament will be a full legislative body,” African Union spokesman Desmond Orjiako told IRIN.

It was reported that the Pan African Parliament is expected to start within 30 days.

“Each member state will elect its representatives based on elections in each country,” he said.

At least one of the five representatives must be a woman.

“I am convinced I am capable and effective, especially among the African women,” Matembe said.

Katuntu said he believes he has made a mark in the Ugandan Parliament and would be a right choice.

Amongi said she was conversant with issues to do with Pan-Africanism such as regional and continental integration.

Ssebalu said he expected the rules committee to work out the election rules.

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