Members of Parliament from the Masaka sub-region have been listed among the poorest performers in the latest plenary scorecard, sparking debates on their effectiveness and commitment.
The scorecard, released over the weekend by the New Vision and Bukedde Newspapers, operating under the state-owned Vision Group, was based on data captured from the Parliamentary Hansard and focused on the frequency of MPs' contributions during plenary sessions.
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The performance evaluation did not take into account the MPs' activities in committee meetings or their appearances in the media.
This limited scope has nonetheless highlighted significant disparities in engagement levels among the legislators.Among the 31 MPs from the Masaka region, which includes Masaka City and nine districts—Kalungu, Kyotera, Rakai, Masaka District, Kalangala, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Sembabule, and Bukomansimbi—several have been identified as notably inactive. Juliet Kakande Nakabuye, the City Woman Representative for Masaka City, scored a dismal zero, indicating she did not speak a single word during plenary sessions throughout the entire year.
This finding has shocked many, especially considering Kakande's heightened media presence in 2023 when she was caught on Parliament CCTV cameras massaging male colleagues during a session.
“It is alarming that such incidents overshadow the actual legislative duties,” remarked political analyst Musoke Robert “Voters need to critically assess the performance of their representatives.”
Other MPs with equally poor scores include Ssejjoba Isaac (Bukoto Mid-West County, Lwengo) and Ninsiima Boaz Kasirabo (Kooki County, Rakai), both also scoring zero.
These figures raise questions about their engagement with legislative processes. Lutaaya Geofrey (Kakuuto County, Kyotera) and Kagabo Twaha Mzee (Bukoto South, Lwengo) also registered zero contributions.Masaka District Woman Representative Namutaawe Joan and Lwengo District Woman Representative Namujju Cissy Dionizia scored slightly better with 1 and 2, respectively.
Other low performers include Musherure Shartsi Nayebare Kuteesa (Mawogola North County, Ssembabule) and Katabaazi Francis Katongole (Kalungu East County), both scoring 3.Some MPs fared marginally better.
Kyotera County representative Lukwago John Paul Mpalanyi scored 5, along with Mukasa Julius Opondo (Bujumba County, Kalangala) and Kemirembe Pauline Kyaka (Lyantonde District Woman Representative). Meanwhile, Kanyike Ronald Evans (Bukoto East County, Masaka) managed to contribute 8 times.Despite the concerning overall performance, a few MPs from the region stood out positively.
Nantongo Fortune Rose (Kyotera District Woman Representative) and Nandagire Christine Ndiwalana (Bukomansimbi North) both spoke 12 times. Kayemba Godfrey Ssolo (Bukomansimbi South) and Nakimuli Helen (Kalangala District Woman Representative) scored 20 and 22, respectively.
The standout performers were Ssewungu Joseph Gonzaga (Kalungu West) with 140 contributions and Mpuuga Mathias (Nyendo-Mukungwe, Masaka City) with 120, placing them among the most active MPs in the entire Buganda region.
The stark contrast in performance levels has ignited a conversation about the accountability and responsibility of elected officials.
“It’s crucial for MPs to remember that their primary role is to represent their constituents' interests in Parliament,” said civic leader Lwanga David “We need more action and less complacency.”
As the debate continues, the latest scorecard serves as a wake-up call for voters and legislators alike, emphasizing the need for active and effective parliamentary participation.
