Speaker Among's ‘Tribal’ Comment Sparks Outcry Amid UCDA Merger Debate

By Crown Media East Africa Reporter

KAMPALA – Parliament Speaker Anita Among is under public scrutiny following a hot microphone incident during Tuesday’s plenary session, where she inadvertently broadcast remarks perceived as ‘tribal’ in tone amid debate over a contentious proposal to merge the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF). The technical oversight by Parliament’s team has reignited accusations of bias, with critics questioning her impartiality in a debate that has already seen considerable opposition from lawmakers.

The UCDA, established in 1991 to regulate Uganda’s coffee sector, has been pivotal in revitalizing coffee production and promoting Ugandan coffee internationally. With coffee as one of Uganda’s top foreign exchange earners, the authority provides essential support to farmers through training, research, and quality assurance. UCDA’s efforts have significantly bolstered Uganda's coffee exports, making the industry a cornerstone of the economy. Many MPs fear that merging UCDA with MAAIF could destabilize this progress, threatening the regulatory independence essential to the coffee sector’s success.

Several MPs voiced their frustration after the session, claiming that the Speaker’s conduct undermines Parliament’s democratic process. “It’s disturbing to see tribal sentiments interfere with such a critical national issue. Our coffee sector deserves impartial leadership that respects all regions and stakeholders,” one MP commented.

Public and social media reactions to the leaked comment have been intense, with many calling for transparency in the decision-making process and a thorough investigation into the Speaker’s conduct. Activists argue that Uganda’s coffee industry requires specialized oversight to thrive globally, while Speaker Among’s office has yet to issue an official statement.

As discussions over UCDA's future continue, the incident has intensified calls for leaders to ensure the debate on Uganda's coffee sector remains free from bias, reflecting the interests of both the farmers and the nation at large.

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