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This move is purportedly in favor of developing an International Conference Center and Commercial Hub at the prison's current location.
The directive from Speaker Among came after Gaffa Mbwatekamwa, Igara County West MP, raised concerns over the lack of consultation on this significant decision. Mbwatekamwa highlighted the issue's emergence from social media and the absence of official confirmation in Parliament.
"The reports about relocating Luzira prison have circulated on social media, but I have not seen any minister or the Prime Minister come to this House to confirm if it’s accurate," he said.
Mbwatekamwa further revealed he had seen two letters related to the matter, including a presidential directive to Otafiire, dated July 10, 2022, to conduct consultative meetings on the prison's relocation. Another letter from Otafiire, dated February 22, 2022, called for stakeholder engagement on the directive.
The discussion also touched on allegations against Minister Otafiire, concerning his involvement in acquiring a government ranch in Buikwe district, which has added to the controversy surrounding the prison relocation plans.
Speaker Among, while adhering to parliamentary procedural rules, suggested that Mbwatekamwa wait for Gen. Otafiire's presence to formally address these concerns. "Could you raise that matter when Gen. Otafiire is present in the House? Our rules stipulate that you cannot discuss someone who is absent from the House," Among stated.
She also mentioned the relevance of the Official Secrecy Act but expressed her interest in getting clarification from the Minister if the allegations proved to be true.
The request for an explanation from Minister Otafiire sets the stage for a broader discussion on the government's infrastructure development strategies and the importance of transparency and stakeholder consultation in decisions affecting national heritage sites and public facilities.
This content was created with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer