By In a significant security move, police have heavily deployed around Parliament as lawmakers convene for an abruptly scheduled plenary session to finalize the Appropriation Bill. The Clerk to Parliament canceled the members’ month-long recess following President Museveni’s refusal to sign the Bill, returning it for further scrutiny.
The session aims to address anomalies identified during the Budget Processing, where Shs750 billion was reallocated to various entities without the Ministry of Finance’s knowledge. President Museveni, in his communication to Speaker Anita Among, stated his refusal to sign the Appropriation Bill due to these discrepancies and directed a redistribution of the funds
With the financial year commencing on July 1, the recall of Parliament is crucial to ensure the Bill’s finalization and approval, facilitating a smooth financial process.
While the reasons for the heavy security deployment remain unclear, sources suggest it may be a precautionary measure following last week’s events in Nairobi, where citizens invaded Kenya’s parliament to protest the passing of the finance bill.
In light of the plenary session, Parliament has suspended all committee meetings. Additionally, Opposition Whip John Baptist Nambeshe’s scheduled meeting with a delegation from the Young Democratic Union of Africa has been affected.
Security deployment is notably concentrated around Nile Avenue roundabout, the National Theatre, and the main gate of Parliament.
