Uganda: Legislature Conqueror Nyanzi Seeks Government To Abolish District Woman MP Seat

KAMPALA — Political activist Nyanzi Martin Luther has announced plans to campaign for constitutional amendments aimed at scrapping or restructuring the District Woman Member of Parliament seat, arguing that the current system of representation should be reviewed in line with principles of equality.

Speaking at a public address in Kampala, Nyanzi said he would begin mobilising citizens and leaders to push for changes to Uganda’s supreme law, particularly provisions that create a Woman MP seat for every district.

“I am preparing to rally citizens and leaders to demand a review of this provision,” Nyanzi said. “If equality is the foundation of our democracy, then representation must be uniform. Either both genders have district representatives, or we operate on one common system.”

Under the Constitution of Uganda, each district elects a Woman Member of Parliament as part of affirmative action measures introduced to address historical gender imbalances in political participation. The arrangement has significantly increased female representation in Parliament since its introduction.

Support and Criticism

Nyanzi’s proposal has drawn mixed reactions from political figures and observers.

Former Kampala Central parliamentary aspirant Abraham Luzzi backed the idea, arguing that the original purpose of the seat has largely been achieved.

“The District Woman MP position has lost relevance,” Luzzi said. “Women have proven they can contest and win in open constituencies. Maintaining a special district seat is no longer justified.”

However, others have urged caution, warning that dismantling affirmative action structures without comprehensive consultation could reverse gains made in women’s political empowerment.

Political analyst Sarah Namatovu said the debate should be grounded in evidence rather than emotion.

“We must look at the data before making such changes,” Namatovu noted. “While progress has been made, it does not automatically mean structural support is no longer needed.”

Legal and Political Implications

Legal experts say amending constitutional provisions on representation would require substantial parliamentary support and potentially a broader national dialogue. Constitutional amendments in Uganda typically demand a rigorous legislative process, including committee scrutiny and voting thresholds in Parliament.

Observers say the issue is likely to ignite nationwide debate, particularly among women’s rights organisations, civil society groups, and political actors preparing for future elections.