MPs oppose reinstating civil servants who quit for politics

Oct 14, 2010

MEMBERS of Parliament have opposed a proposal by President Yoweri Museveni to re-instate civil servants who resigned their jobs to contest in party primaries but lost.

By Joyce Namutebi

MEMBERS of Parliament have opposed a proposal by President Yoweri Museveni to re-instate civil servants who resigned their jobs to contest in party primaries but lost.

Meeting NRM party flag-bearers and members of the party at the Peace Training and Resource Centre Urafiki in Katakwi district on Monday, Museveni said civil servants, especially teachers, who lost in the primaries, could be re-absorbed in public service.

However, some lawmakers yesterday threatened to sue the Public Service should they re-absorb such civil servants.

They contended that such an action violates the Political Parties and Organisations Act and the Constitution, which prohibit civil servants from taking part in partisan politics.

Geoffrey Ekanya (FDC) said the President was looking for support in the coming elections.

Emmanuel Dombo (NRM) noted that Museveni should seek the opinion of the Attorney General on the provisions of the law so as to avoid litigation.

“He should explore the possibility of making a constitutional amendment so that the issue can be discussed or we can revert back to the Movement system, where this was possible,” Dombo said.

Justine Kasule Lumumba (NRM) said she did not support Museveni’s proposal saying if re-absorbed they would be denying the young people an opportunity to get jobs.

The Deputy Attorney General, Fred Ruhindi, said civil servants who resigned their jobs in order to participate in the primaries would have to re-apply for the jobs when they are advertised.

Opposition Chief Whip Kassiano Wadri said the President was trying to woo people for votes.

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