By Markson Omagor
NATIONAL
The newly elected Chairperson of Uganda Women Parliamentary Association (UWOPA), Sarah Opendi has pledged to advocate for enacting of gender based laws in parliament.
Opendi was yesterday 1st November 2021 elected UWOPA Chairperson replacing Pamela Kamugo (Budaka woman MP).
Opendi won the two horse race with 66 votes beating Olive Koyekyenga Katwesigye, (Buhweju Woman MP) who garnered 30 votes in an election held at Kabira Country Club in Kampala.
Speaking to this reporter today 2nd November 2021, Opendi said she will spearhead enacting of laws that directly affect women.
“”I pledge to advocate for enacting of gender based laws like the Market Bill, Succession Bill, and Marriage Bill,” she said.
She also pledges to lead women and make them relevant in the 11th Parliament which is actually dominated by men.
UWOPA) is an all-party parliamentary caucus established in 1989. It provides a forum for legislators to discuss, share experiences and support activities that facilitate women’s participation and leadership in all dimensions of politics including socio-economics, science and technology.
Opendi hailed women for voting her even after receiving calls with directives that she shouldn’t be voted.
“Despite directives that some MPs had been barred from voting me, I appreciate, and I will fight for the women’s cause,” she said.
“UWOPA needs a stronger woman who can lobby government and strong patterns, for all the support. We also need a team player; therefore, I promise to deliver, all your requests with your support,” Opendi said.
UWOPA membership
UWOPA’s is comprised of over 200 MPs in the 11th Parliament with a total of 556 MPs.
Nabukenya Brenda, (Luweero Woman MP) was elected vice-chairperson, while Hope Brania Nakazibwe (Mubende woman) took the secretary-general slot.
Margret Namubiru Rwabushaja was elected to represent Workers, Laura Kanushu for the national female People With Disabilities (PWDs), Central region will be represented by Gorret Namugga (Mawogola County MP), Linda Agnes Auma, (Lira District woman) is the publicity Secretary, Brenda Namukuta, the Kaliro District Woman MP was elected treasurer, Peace Acan Judith (Nwoya MP) will represent the northern region, Bukwo Woman MP, Evelyn Chemutai will represent Eastern, Catherine Ndamire (Kabale Woman MP) will represent the Western region.
Also in attendance was Betty Amongi, the Minister of Gender Labour and Social Development.
She pledged to lobby the government to ensure that it directs more resources towards the women’s cause.
