The new Minister for Local Government Hon. Rafael Magyezi has defended his appointment saying it is on merit and has nothing to do with the ‘Age-limit Bill’ because he is competent for the job.
Magyezi made the remarks shortly after his appointment was approved by the vetting committee of parliament on Friday.
The MP for Igara County West who championed the controversial bill that scrapped the age-limit from Uganda’s Constitution said, with or without the bill he qualifys to be the minister for Local Government, and it is wrong for people to say his appointment was a reward for tabling and supporting the bill.
Magyezi says he believes President Museveni appointed him on merit having considered the competences he has, including his 26 year-experience in Local government. He says he worked as a District planner for years, a Senior economist in local government, and has been the Chairperson for the Local Government committee for years.
He also claims, tabling a bill is one of the responsibilities of a legislator, therefore he did what exactly he was meant to do.
Raphael Magyezi tabled the controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill 2017 which caused so much contention within and outside the Parliament, and culminated into a two day brawl that saw the military invade parliament to restore order.
Other appointments that were approved by parliament today include;
Hon. Judith Nabakooba; Minister for ICT and National guidance
Hon. Peter Ogwang; State Minister for ICT,
Hon. Beatrice Atim Anywah; Minister for Environment,
Hon. Hamson Obua; State Minister for Sports.
Hon. Helen Adoa; State Minister for Fisheries.
Molly Kamukama; State Minister in charge of Economic Monitoring.