By Alice Lubwama
The speaker of parliament Rebecca Kadaga has demanded for an early assurance from Government that it will not tamper with Murchison falls.
While opening the plenary sitting this afternoon, speaker Kadaga said that she was seeking the assurance on behalf of the citizens who are concerned about the tourism sector.
This comes after the power regulator; Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) published a note inviting public views on the planned feasibility study of the area by a South African firm that would eventually construct the power dam.
Tourism operators and conservationists have all come out to oppose the move saying that by constructing a dam near the falls, it will disappear.
Murchison Falls is situated in the Murchison Falls national park in the northern part of the Albertine Rift Valley.
It is well known to be one of Uganda’s ancient conservation areas. The park covers an area of about 3,893km2 and it is known to be one of Uganda’s well-protected areas.
The speaker has also set a deadline for government to table before parliament all the business considered important by mid August for early consideration, saying that the business committee of parliament which convened this morning discussed the parliamentary calendar and the business to be handled and agreed that mps break off for recess by 3rd October.
"We have in mind the electoral reform bills, I don’t know how many times I should emphasize this but we need answers on this." Kadaga said
She noted that the mps need to complete their work before October, in order to have time for their constituency since this is the year when lawmakers spend more time with their constituents.
The speaker has also asked the leader of government business also prime minister to ensure that ministers attend the sittings of the house since in absence of a relevant minister; she will be forced to order any minister to handle any business.