New Members of Parliament have been warned that failure to attend parliamentary sittings regularly without authorization could lead to loss of their seats, as Parliament steps up enforcement of attendance regulations.
The warning was issued by the Clerk to Parliament, Mr Adolf Mwesige Kasaija, during an orientation session for incoming legislators. He reminded MPs that attendance at plenary sittings is a legal requirement and a core responsibility of elected representatives.
Mr Kasaija cautioned that any MP who misses 15 consecutive parliamentary sittings without written permission from the Speaker risks being deemed to have vacated their seat in line with the Rules of Procedure of Parliament.
“You risk losing your legislative seat if you miss 15 consecutive parliamentary sittings without written permission from the Speaker,” he said.
Parliament officials emphasized that the rule is intended to promote discipline and ensure that legislators actively participate in lawmaking, oversight, and representation duties on behalf of their constituents.
The Clerk noted that MPs who expect to be absent for official duties, health reasons, or other justified circumstances must obtain prior written approval from the Speaker to avoid penalties.
The warning comes amid renewed efforts by Parliament to address absenteeism, which has previously affected the smooth conduct of parliamentary business, including delays in debates and reduced participation in plenary sessions.
Parliamentary leadership has maintained that consistent attendance is essential for effective governance and accountability, and that failure to comply with the rules may result in disciplinary action, including possible loss of a seat.
