- Parliament’s role in the ratification of the treaty that has not been signed by the Executive would tantamount in exercising powers that are not under its preserve.
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The Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Vincent Ssempijja, says the ratification of the treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons is a matter that will be considered by the UPDF High Command and Army Council.
“I continued to engage the Commander-in-Chief about this and he replied to my requests, and I gave copies to the chairperson of the committee. But this is a sensitive matter”.
This was in reaction to the committee on Foreign Affairs recommendation on a motion for a resolution of Parliament urging government to sign and ratify the Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons.
The committee is also calling for the enhancement of the capacity of the Atomic Energy Council of Uganda to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements in line with the amendment of the Atomic Energy Act, 2008 to provide for nuclear safety, security, safeguards and liability in light of the prohibition of nuclear weapons.
Hon. Boniface Okot (NRM, Northern Youth Representative) however says the motion by Bardege-Layibi Division MP, Hon. Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, calling for Parliament’s role in the ratification of the treaty that has not been signed by the Executive would tantamount in exercising powers that are not under its preserve.
“The duty to make Treaties, Conventions, Agreements or other arrangements between Uganda and any international organization or body lies within the mandate of the President as provided for by article 123 of the Constitution,” Okot explained.
He added that the Attorney General advised the committee that implementation of the treaty, if signed, would require an amendment in the Constitution.
Among other recommendations by the committee is for the Ministry of Internal Affairs to strengthen cross-border cooperation and coordination to ensure adequate border control measures, so as to avoid infiltration of illegal firearms which may include nuclear weapons.
It also recommends that Uganda should take adequate measures to secure health nuclear materials.
According to Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa,the matter has been well stipulated and so the Executive should be left to do the work that is within their mandate.