Parliament Enforces New Dress Code Regulations for MPs and UPDF Representatives

The Committee on Rules, Privileges, and Discipline has introduced stringent proposals regarding the dress code for Members of Parliament (MPs), including specific restrictions for Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) representatives in the House.

Presented by the committee chairperson, Hon. Abdu Katuntu, during a plenary sitting, the report emphasized the inappropriateness of MPs representing the armed forces wearing combat uniforms while attending parliamentary proceedings. The committee noted that combat attire carries the connotation of a battlefield, which is unsuitable for the legislative environment.

Dress Code Amendments and Parliamentary Decision 

“The committee, therefore, discourages the practice of wearing combat uniforms during parliamentary proceedings,” Hon. Katuntu stated while presenting the report.

Following these recommendations, Parliament has officially banned UPDF representatives from wearing combat uniforms while in the House, permitting only the UPDF’s official ceremonial attire. This decision was made during a plenary session as part of an amendment to the parliamentary Rules of Procedure, which govern the conduct and decorum of MPs while handling national matters.

Lt. Gen. James Mugira’s Submission on Military Attire

During the amendment of the Rules of Procedure, UPDF Representative in Parliament, Hon. Lt. Gen. James Mugira, strongly advocated for maintaining military attire for official occasions while complying with the new regulations.

Lt. Gen. Mugira emphasized the disciplined nature of the institution he represents, stating, “The institution we represent is a disciplined, rule-based, and order-based entity, so we are very happy that the committee has come up with these proposals to amend these rules to ensure decency in the House, maintain order, and prevent any form of anarchy.”

Highlighting the significance of military uniforms, he elaborated that they symbolize honor, pride, and discipline, which are fundamental to any organization, especially the military. “A uniform is a symbol of honor, it is a symbol of pride, it brings discipline, which is the bedrock of any organization, especially a military organization, for which we are known. It is a symbol of identity, ensuring proper identification of UPDF representatives within Parliament,” he explained.

He further noted that the presence of UPDF representatives in Parliament is constitutionally mandated, making military uniforms essential for clear identification. “The presence of UPDF in Parliament is a creation of the law, of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda. How can you identify us? I, therefore, wish to associate myself with the recommendation of the committee that we put on this uniform, but we are discouraged from putting on combat attire. We are going to sort this out as a caucus within the UPDF,” he stated.

Striking a Balance Between Military Representation and Parliamentary Decorum

Lt. Gen. Mugira’s remarks highlight the UPDF’s commitment to discipline and professionalism while respecting parliamentary decorum. His submission underscores the necessity of balancing military identity with the need to maintain order and civility within Parliament.

With this decision, UPDF representatives will continue to wear their official ceremonial attire in Parliament, ensuring that their identity and discipline are preserved without evoking an image of a battlefield. The amendment to the Rules of Procedure marks a significant step in reinforcing the principles of order and decorum within Uganda’s legislative environment.