Parliament has approved the Political Parties and Organisations (Amendment) Bill, 2025, making government funding for political entities conditional upon their adherence to democratic values such as mutual respect, open dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.
The Bill, introduced on 14 May 2025 by Hon. Faith Nakut, Woman Representative for Napak District, also mandates government financial support for political parties and organisations represented in Parliament that are officially affiliated with the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD)—an autonomous platform through which parties engage in structured conversations.
Attorney General Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka supported the amendments, noting that they are in line with Article 72(3) of the Constitution, which empowers Parliament to regulate the operation and financing of political organisations.
Presenting the committee’s report, Hon. Stephen Baka, Chairperson of the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and MP for Bukooli County North, said the committee endorsed the proposed changes to section 14 of the original Act.
“The committee concurs that when political parties uphold these values, it lowers the risk of political unrest, conflict, and divisiveness—thereby promoting a more harmonious and stable political environment,” said Baka.
The Bill was passed during the plenary session held on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, presided over by Speaker Anita Among.
Baka emphasized that upon receiving presidential assent, political organisations will be compelled to engage in meaningful dialogue and avoid inflammatory language that could harm national unity.
The amendment also modifies section 20 of the principal law to officially recognise IPOD as a statutory body within the National Consultative Forum for parties with representation in Parliament.
Under the new legislation, IPOD’s responsibilities now include conflict mitigation, resolution of political disputes, and ongoing consultation on legislative and policy matters.
Baka commended IPOD for its role since its establishment in 2009, citing its contribution to political stability during previous election cycles by fostering communication among the ruling party, opposition, and smaller parties.
Additionally, IPOD will be tasked with creating an alternative forum to engage all registered political parties and organisations that lack parliamentary representation, ensuring inclusivity in national discussions.
However, Parliament dismissed the recommendations presented in the minority report by Hon. Jonathan Odur (UPC, Erute County South).
Odur contended that the Bill breaches the Constitution, particularly Article 93, which prohibits Parliament from considering a private member’s Bill that places a financial obligation on the consolidated fund.
Speaker Anita Among clarified that the proposed amendments do not modify the existing financial framework for political organisations.
“We have already been allocating funds to political parties in Parliament. This law simply states that parties must participate in IPOD to access those funds. If you choose not to collaborate or take part in IPOD activities, then you will not be eligible for the funding,” Among explained.
