Hon. Mukasa (putting on a white mask) greeting sheikhs at Haji Saudi’s wedding in Kitebi yesterday

NEWS EDITOR
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HON. MANJERI Kyebakutika the opposition deputy chiefwhip, also Jinja Municipacity member of Parliament and Rubaga South legislator Aloysius Mukasa have started campaign calling on public to rise up and block President Museveni’s move to scrap bail application for suspects on capital offences.
The two legislators said, this law will not only affect politicians opposed to NRM but will also be easily used by the opportunists and the well-to-do, to grab people’s land and bibanja, take their houses and destroy families.
The MPs who were speaking at different functions yesterday, called on public to keep aside their political differences and unanimously resist passing this bad law which is being brought in a bad spirit.
Addressing mourners yesterday at Buwekula village, Bugembe in Jinja City, deputy chiefwhip Manjeri Kyebakutika said, “If public allow this bad law to be passed, someone can easily false accuse you say, of murder. And by the time the case is heard to the conclusion and court findings shows that you are innocent, your kibanja or land will have been taken by opportunists and land grabbers, your business and family will have been destructed and your life will never be the same again.”
MP Kyebakutika commonly known as ‘Omutembeyi’ (Hawaker) by her supporter said National Unity Platform  (NUP) party will not allow passing of this bad law. She was attending the burial of her supporter and businesslady Kauma Winnie Lilian who succumbed to cancer at the age of 37. Both Kyebakutika and Lilian were once Hawkers in Jinja.
“If it’s passed, Uganda will be the first country in the world to deny suspects their right of bail. Our laws are very clear, a suspect is innocent until proven guilty by courts of law. Gen. Museveni is fueling this bad campaign but it will never see light.” Said Deputy opposition chiefwhip.
She asked public wherever they are to, “Please call your area Members of Parliament, caution them on dangers of this bill and tell them not to pass it into a law. Every suspect has a right to bail and so should not be scrapped by ill intentioned leaders. Please don’t allow them, be resistant.” Noted MP Manjeri Kyebakutika.
She talked about her project to donate Mama kits to every pregnant mother in Jinja City and the fully fledged ambulance she recently bought for her people.
“In NUP, we believe in working for our people and sharing a little we have. We are your servants, you are our bosses. Let’s keep the fire burning, we will wear the crown together.” Said MP Manjeri at a burial function attended by other City leaders who included Deputy Speaker Ms. Kyakuwayire Kamya, councilor Cissy Matama Zirama and others.
Late Kauma was a born-again and prayers were conducted by both Deliverance Church Bugembe and Wairaka Miracle Centre. Pastor Moses Kawooya reminded those who are greedy, that riches they have wrongly accumulated will not go with them when they die and asked them to repent and turn to God.

MP MUKASA @ HAJI MUSA SAIDI’S WEDDING
While officiating at the wedding of his supporter Haji Saidi Musa yesterday in Kitebi, Lubaga division, the area MP Hon. Aloysius Mukasa asked Muslim brothers to cry out to Allah to frustrate President Museveni’s move in scrapping bail application to suspects. 
Smartly donnes in a Muslim kanzu, MP Mukasa who is pursuing a Bachelors degree in Laws said, those perpetrating for this bill should expect a showdown because public will speak loudly against it.
“Wherever I go for consultations, electorates tell me never to support scrapping of bail application. And I will not. I can’t misuse peoples’ mandate to pass bad laws. You all know how our brothers and sisters in NUP are being arrested on concorcted-up charges. We shall traverse the whole country to sensitive public against scrapping bail application.  May Allah be with us.” Said Lubaga South MP Aloysius Mukasa.
Haji Musa Saidi applauded the MP for being bold and campaign against scrapping of bail application saying that they don’t regret sending him to the 11th Parliament.
He said,  “As Rubaga South, we are happy that we are perfectly represented. At a time when political prisoners are still rotting in jails, getting them a bail is all what we want. Now if someone moves in to scrap bail application, then we can’t support it. Keep it up Hon. Mukasa.”
Muslims in attendance said will pray to the almighty Allah to intervene.
Scrapping bail application is failing to sink in people’s hearts. On Thursday, Government Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka told members of Uganda Parliamentary Press Association  (UPPA) that they are still consulting all stakeholders.
Government chiefwhip Thomas Tayebwa also denied ever telling NRM caucus MPs that President Museveni ‘ordered’ them to pass this bill into a law if it comes to Parliament, come what may. He said, media misquoted him.

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Balaam and other events managers in a group photo with Rt. Hon. Lukia Nakadama (standing fifth from left), other ministers and religious leaders during the launch of Music promoters’ SACCO on Wednesday last week

NEWS EDITOR
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EVENTS philanthropist Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi together with other Music promoters have asked President Museveni to kindly reconsider his decision of fully reopening up the country in January 2022, saying he should allow artists to perform during Christmas and New year season so that they don’t miss out on this festive season for the second year! 
Speaking on behalf of National Events (Bivvulu) promoters, Mr. Balaam a renown Musevenist said, if President grants them an opportunity to have music shows in the coming festive season, they committed themselves to sponsor Covid-19 vaccination, sensitization through adverts on different media platforms country over so that all their fans get Covid-19 jabs.
Balaam said, “We beg our beloved President to allow us have events from 24th December, 25th (Christmas day), 26th (Boxing day), 31st December 2021 and on 01st January 2022.”
In the Presidential address on Thursday, Mr. Museveni categorically said, he will fully reopen the country in January next year and urged Ugandans to get vaccinated against Covid-19.
This means, music events and Theatres will remain closed for the second year yet in such festivals, this is when music industry gets good business.
Balaam told Museveni that, “If you allow us to work in Festive season, we as music promoters will through advertising these events also include sensitizing people all over the country to go and be vaccinated and if need be, we will allow only fans who have received Covid-19 jabs to attend our shows. We pray that if we are allowed, can use the month of November to carry out a Nation wide campaign to encourage our fans to go and get vaccinated.”
Balaam sent this message through Rt. Hon. Lukia Isanga Nakadama who is the Third Deputy Prime minister and minister without Portfolio.
Nakadama had been delegated by Her Excellency Vice president Maj. Rtd. Jessica Alupo to launch National Events (Bivvulu) Promoters Multipurpose Coperative Society Ltd (SACCO) at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala.
This is a National Wide cooperative Society helping youth especially in the Arts sector who include Artists, promoters, talent managers, among others, uniting for a common goal of mindset change for social and economic development. President Museveni already pledged to put UGX 20Bn in this SACCO from Emyoga budget.
The function was attended by among others Hon. Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Gender Minister Betty Amongi, Col. Elly Kayanja who represented Museveni’s brother Gen. Salim Saleh, officials from the ministry of Trade, RCC Hood Hussein, Pastor Jessica Kayanja, former Supreme Mufti Sheikh Silman Kasule Ndirangwa and almost all music promoters.
Balaam who is this SACCO’s Director Public Relations and Member of the credit Committee said they don’t want to miss the Festive season again.
He revealed, “Even if it means enforcing all artists to first go for vaccination before clearing their Festive season shows, we will do that and we will ensure SOPS are observed.”
Balaam noted that, if churches, business, Universities and tertiary institutions are opened, so should be music shows because this industry employs hundreds of people and many families depend on it. 
In her response, Rt. Hon. Nakadama promised to deliver music promoters’ request to the president and expectactions are that the Head of State will make a ruling on that.

LAUNCHING OF MUSIC PROMOTERS’ SACCO
The move excited Vice President Jessica Alupo, she said government is ready to inject UGX 20Bn in this Coperative Society so that they together enjoy the economic development championed by President Museveni.
Through her message delivered by Rt. Hon. Lukia Nakadama, VP Alupo said, the formation National Events (Bivvulu) Promoters Multipurpose Coperative Society Ltd was timely and she pledged to support promoters and artists access this emyoga fund to help them develop and fight poverty.
On the UGX 20Bn to this SACCO, President Museveni said will first give them UGX 10Bn and if they use it well, he will add them UGX 10Bn. Music producers assured the president that indeed they will perfectly use this money and even hinted on how they are going to use it.

ABOUT THE MUSIC PROMOTERS’ SACCO
National Events (Bivvulu Promoters) Multi-purpose Cooperative Society Ltd is an Organization that brings together youth in Uganda towards a common goal of unity of purpose and changing of mindset. It’s offices are located in Makindye opposite Court. 
It was founded by 34 Events promoters and was fully registered in July 2021. Today, it has membership of 3000 people.
“The term ‘Multipurpose’ in our Association name of National Events (Bivvulu) Multipurpose Promoters Cooperative Society Limited means that the cooperative is to engage in diverse income generating activities not limited to Events Promotion in our country. We are targeting atleast 300,000 members.” Said Andrew Mukasa commonly known as Bajjo of Bajjo Events.
The SACCO’s Mission is: Creating opportunities for financial growth of it’s members so that they are self reliant and have multiple income streams and their vision is to be the leading profitable creative Arts Industry cooperative in Uganda that is financially beneficial to it’s members.
National Events (Bivvulu) Promoters Multi-purpose Cooperative Society Limited is not partisan, it welcomes members from different tribes, religious and political beliefs.  
The organization will do regional launches with Western Uganda, Eastern and Central Uganda for the start and later, embark on the whole country.

CURRENT LEADERSHIP

1. Andrew Mukasa (Bajjo) – Chairman
2. Moses Lubulwa (Luba Events) – Vice Chairman
3. Musa Kavuma (KT) – Treasurer and Chairman Credit Committee
4. Balam Barugahara (Balam Events) is the Director Public Relations and Member of the credit Committee
5. Halima Namakula is the Vice director Public Relations and Member credit Committee 
6. Emmamuel Serugo – Chairman Assets and Liability Committee 
7. Ronald Muyomba – Coordinator and Member of the Finance Committee. 
8. Rasheedah Nkuba (Member Executive). 
9. Emmanuel Lwasa (Chairman Vetting Committee) 
10. Isah Mugenyi – Chairman Supervisory committee.
11. Edward Rukundo (Member of Executive Committee)
12. Kaweesa Yasin (Member of Executive Committee).

WHAT CHAIRMAN BAJJO SAID @ THE LAUNCH:
Today history is being made as we launch National Events (Bivvulu) Promoters Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd.
Someone could ask why I call it a historical event? Because for quite a long period of time, we have been taken to be opportunists, beggars, and we are baptized names like Badongo, ba mbaleese, identifying us as people who don’t even contribute to both arts sector and the National economy at large.
Surprisingly, some of us here have made many popular Musicians, some of us do other businesses and we are medium tax payers according to URA rankings, most of us are legally married with children and grand children, showing how responsible we are.
We intend to offer low interest rates to Promoters, Musicians, comedians and general public who will join as members, at below 11% putting it in mind that today the commercial rate is at 20% and subject to change during inflation, is not sustainable to the growth of our members and we shall do better.
We also have plans to venture into real Estate so that we provide affordable housing to members. It is also in plan to consider Islamic banking to Muslim members in the nearby communities.
We hereby request the government through you to support this organization as it is the only way to spearhead the youth mindset change for financial development.

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1ST SON: Gen. Muhoozi smartly dressed in a suit with a tie

NEWS EDITOR
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AFTER this News website published a story which arose from a tweet by Maj. Chris Magezi alerting public about some rogue characters calling themselves ‘Friends of Muhoozi Kainerugaba project’ and collecting money from unsuspecting members of public over a fictitious event at Kampala Sheraton Hotel next month, security embarked on investigations about this clique and the list of victims has leaked to us.
For starters, Maj. Magezi is the Director Information and Communication Office of the Senior Presidential Advisor in charge of Special Operations (SPASO) who is Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
In his tweet on Monday this week, the soft speaking Maj. Magezi told public that, “It has come to the attention of the office of the Commander Land Forces (CLF) & SPASO that some rogue characters are organizing and collecting money from unsuspecting members of Public over some fictitious event at Kampala Sheraton sometime next month.”
“Please be advised that, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba is neither aware about the said event and nor has he authorized any such undertaking in his name. Members of public should not be hoodwinked otherwise.” Reads Maj. Magezi’s tweet. 
In his response, a one Lyvine Julius Kashugi who prefers to be addressed as Chairman ‘Friends of Mohoozi Kaineruga Project’ denied ever soliciting money from members of public to the extent of challenging Maj. Magezi to, “Table evidence if we have ever asked for money from any one like he alleges.”
In an exclusive interview with this Website, Kashugi who is on record, accused Maj. Magezi for what he called  blackmailing him saying, his tweet was meant to character assassinate their good cause of celebrating achievements of Gen. Muhoozi and, “To taint my (Kashugi’s) name.”
We can however reliably inform our dear readers that, we have obtained a list  of  about 70 people who pledged and others have already paid in cash to organise a function for Gen. Muhoozi, an event the 1st son isn’t aware of.
According to the leaked list, it has a title: MUHOOZI PROJECT LUNCHEON LIST ON 27/11/2021 AT SHERATON HOTEL. There are two Mobile money numbers in the names of Agaba Rossete given to public to contribute money for this function. These Mobile Money numbers are; 0786187182, 0702187182.
We are told, on being tipped about how a clique of people is collecting money from members of public in the guise of organizing a function for him, Gen. Muhoozi directed Maj. Magezi to notify the public not be be conned of their money and directed that the motive of this clique be investigated.
Security wants to know why Kashugi and his clique are fundraising huge sums of money and who is responsible for this money? Can Kashugi account for this money?.
“This is what Maj. Magezi was talking about. In fact, even President Museveni stopped all NRM Mobilisers from collecting money from peasants. Are the  Kashugi’s registered? Where do they report? Whom do they give accountability? This is open day robbery which can’t be allowed.” Said a top state operative (names withheld) who was deployed to  monitor Kashugi and his group’s activities.
Below is a list showing who gave what to Kashugi’s clique for the fictitious function.

LIST SHOWING MONEY COLLECTED FOR MUHOOZI PROJECT LUNCHEON ON 27/11/2021 AT SHERATON HOTEL

1. Fred Waigolo 100,000
2. Kanakulya Sam 100,000
3. Leah Ayoo 100000 paid
4. Aine Lillian 100000
5. Busingye Elizabeth 100,000
6. Ibrahim Luwero 100,000
7. Aijuka Joram 100,000
8. Kamuntu Robert 100,000
9. Murangira Dickson 100,000
10. Mugisha Moses 100,000
11. Cissy Kiragye 100,000
12. Matsiko Clever 100,000
13. Babirye Phionah 100,000
14. Nakigozi 100,000
15. Andrew Mpamize 100,000
16. Peter Waiswa 100,000
17. Ronald Atizarirwe 100,000
18. Chris Muhame 100,000
19. Bena Asiimwe 100,000
20. Godfrey Musindi 100,000
21. Ahumuza Mable 100,000
22. Generous Kamuntu 100,000
23. PatramUg Promotionsy 100,000
24. Mr. Ssendi 100,000
25. Pilaato 150,000
26. Odongkol Andre 100,000
27. Irocu Joanita 100,000
28. Edgar Nuwe 100,000
29. Ayebale Mark 100,000
30. Jacinta Lokuru 100,000
31. Katto Denis 100,000
32. Tayebwa 100,000
33. Nina Rose 100,000
34. Ngobi 100,000
35. Lyvine Julius Kash 150,000
36. Mutesi 300,000
37. Arinda Carol 300,000
38. Mwiza Dee 100,000
39. Ronald Jn 120,000
40. Muhangi 120,000
41. Cynthia 100,000
42. Gerald Kansime 100,000 paid 
43. Peruth Kaliisa 100,000
44. Luswambi Charles 100,000
45. Kish 100,000
46. Sandra Mwesiga 100,000 paid 
47. Besigye Anthony 100,000 paid 
48. Ihunde Babra 100,000
49. Merab 1M
50. Edgar Abaho 100,000
51. Fab Love 100,000
52. Shallot 100,000
53. Edith Biraro 100,000
54. Naomi Nkiziibwe 100,000
55. Frank Gasana 100,000
56. Dr. Hillary 100,000
57. Nuwenyine Lydia 100,000
58. Kasenene Ngabirano 100,000
59. Esther Karegyeya 100,000
60. Emma Manager 200,000
61. Ivan Muganga 100,000
62. Mwebesa Eric 100,000
63. Kamugira Jnr 100,000
64. Remy 100,000
65. Kenneth Ivans Odongo 100,000
66. Fred W 100,000
67.   Kanakulya Sam 100,000
68. Mwebesa Eric 100,000

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PHOTO: Government Chiefwhip Thomas Tayebwa (centre) together with AG Kiryowa Kiwanuka (right) and Hon. Nankabirwa (right) interacting with members of UPPA at Parliament yesterday

NEWS EDITOR
PARLIAMENT

HON. KIRYOWA Kiwanuka, the Attorney General of Uganda, yesterday Thursday met members of Uganda Parliamentary Press Association (UPPA) and took them through the Bills that have been introduced to the the 5 Month old 11th Parliament showing their relevancy and why they should be urgently passed by the August House.
This was during media interaction between the Government chiefwhip Hon. Thomas Tayebwa and UPPA which took place in the Conference Hall at Parliament.
In the meeting which was attended by Energy Minister Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, the convener Chiefwhip Tayebwa said members of NRM caucus will be persuaded to have a consensus on scrapping of Bail application to suspects of capital offences, a campaign driven by H.E the President.
The Attorney General who did not to submit on the issue of Bail, insisted that consultation is on-going.
Here is how AG Kiwanuka submitted on the 10 Bills introduced to the 11th Parliament;

1. THE NSSF BILL 2021
   The National Social Security Fund Ammendment) Bill, 2021 is among the seven lapsed Bills from the 10th Parliament which were reintroduced for enactment to the 11th Parliament. Its 1st reading was on 29th September, 2021. 
   This Bill seeks to expand social security coverage by making contributions to the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) mandatory for all workers in the formal or informal sectors to make voluntary contributions to the National Social Security Fund, to enhance the spectrum of benefits available to workers and to improve management of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). 
   Explaining why the Social Security Bill was brought, Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka told members of UPPA that, “Social security is to provide for persons that have been working at a later point in their lives. That means that if a government sets a law which forced every person working to save for the future meaning when you get out of your working life, you have something to sustain you. That is the purpose of The Social Security Fund Act.”
   On Mid term access of the funds, Hon. KK said, “The purpose of that amended was for members to have an opportunity to access their funds before the end of the time. The Bill expects that you will have your money secured until you are 55 years old or until you retire. There are certain circumstances.  However, this amendment brings in an opportunity for person to have access to their money in mid term.”
   On the need for social security, AG KK noted that when you are still able to work, although the pay is low, imagine when you are not earing at all? 
   “People should understand that as they grow older, your children are also growing. So by the time you hit 55 years or retirement age, probably your children are going into Universities and you still need an income. That is the purpose of The Social Security Fund amendment.” Explained Attorney General Kiwanuka. 
   The Gender, Labour and Social Development Committee is handling this Bill.
2. THE FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE BILL, 2021
   The Bill is handled by The Agriculture, Animal Industries and Fisheries Committee. It’s 1st reading was also on 29th September, 2021.The Bill seeks to consolidate and reform the law relating to the management of Fisheries, Fisheries products and aquaculture. 
   The current Fisheries Act, Cap. 197 is insufficient in addressing the challenges and emerging issues in regulation and management of the Fisheries sector including; overcapacity, invasion of water bodies by aquatic weeds, limited support and investments in aquaculture, institutional challenges excessive pressure, destructive fishing malpractices, growth in illicit fish trade in immature fish, increasing local fish demand and decreasing per capita fish consumption.
   Supporting the Bill, Kiryowa Kiwanuka noted that, “In the past Uganda had specific cash crops. Our Agriculture was based on coffee, cotton, tea, etc. But no where from the colonial and independence time did we ever have fisheries or Agriculture as a major aspect of our life. It was done socially within our society, just doing fishing to eat. That was the purpose. Now it’s changing.”
   He talked about the population which is growing saying, “The pressure on water and our water bodies is increasing.The kind of things that we do with our water bodies is also increasing. Today you can find people building houses in the waters. This Bill will help government to manage resource that we have in fisheries.”
   “Members, fisheries is a major source of income and of managed well, we will go a long way in assisting us balance our trade. But it is also important to note that there are societies which are predominantly doing fishing and others which are not but are business people. So this Bill is supposed to come and address this.” AG told UPPA journalists.
   He gave an example that, when the businessman comes, he come for profits and when business is done, he or she goes away. “The Bill will help us deal with the bad practices in fishing and you all know the long fighting against fishing and etc.”
3. THE LAND LORD AND TENANT BILL, 2021
   This long awaited Bill, its1st reading was on 29th September, 2021. This Bill seeks to;
   (a) Regulate the relationship of the landlord and the tenant
   (b) Reform and consolidate the law relating to the letting of premises, and
   (c) Provideo for the responsibilities of landlords and tenants in relation to the letting premises.
   The Bill is under The Physical Infrastructure Committee.
   AG Kiryowa Kiwanuka said, this Bill is intending to regulate the relationship between the tenant and the Landlord. 
   “It is a double edge sword because someone must build the structure in order for someone to rent it. And the person who builds it, builds it for a profit. However, government isn’t a businessman. It is here to protect the social aspects of the society.” He said, Government is aware that not everybody will be able to build a house at a particular time, therefore, the relationship between the tenant and the landlord is very important. 
   Giving an example, Kiwanuka who co-owns a legal company with Mr. Karugire (who is President Museveni’s 1st son-in-law) said, “Look at an incident when someone with a family is working and gets a salary, but over a sudden, he or she loses the job. But where he lives, the property belongs to the landlord. So what does the landlord do because he wants his money? He asks the tenant to leave the next day! This Bill will cater for this. Government will sit in the middle of tenants and the landlords. It’s role is to make sure that the society is safe.”
   He said, the Bill will also determine the reasonable rent. “The government needs to balance the needs of the public with the needs of the businessmen/landlords. If the government sees that a certain section of the society is squeezed, then the government must come in.” Noted Kiryowa Kiwanuka. 
4. THE SUCCESSION (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2021
   The Bill seeks to amend the Succession Act, Cap. 162, to bring it in conformity with the Constitution and provide for gender equality in accordance with articles 21 and 33 of the Constitution by repealing sections that were declared unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court. 
   This Bill provides further for the protection of principal residential property for the benefit of the surviving spouse and lineal descendants; revises the percentages of distribution of the estate and an intestate; provides for the duration of administration and execution of wills of deceased persons; and enhances penalties and prescribes penalties for contravention of the Act. 
   Its 1st reading was on 5th October,  2021. It’s under The Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee.
5. THE SUPPLIMENTARY APPROPRIATION  (No. 2) BILL, 2021
   It’s handled by The Budget Committee  (Standing Committee). Its 1st reading was on 29th September, 2021.
   The purpose of this Bill is to make supplemantary appropriation out of the Consolidated Fund under Article 156 (3) of three Constitution and section 25 of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015 to meet the additional expenditure for the Financial Year 2018/2019.
6. THE SUPPLIMENTARY APPROPRIATION  (NO.3) BILL, 2021
   The purpose of this Bill is to make supplementary appropriation out of the Consolidated Fund under Article 156 (3) of the Constitution and section 25 of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015 to meet additional expenditure for the Financial Year 2019/2020.
   1st reading of this Bill was on 29th September, 2021. It’s under the Budget Committee  (Standing Committee).
7. THE PHYSICAL PLANNERS REGISTRATION BILL, 2021
   Its 1st reading was on 5th October, 2021. It is handled by The Physical Infrastructure Committee.
   The Bill seeks to;
   (a) Provide for establishment of a Physical planners’ Registration Board
   (b) Provide for the powers and functions of the Board
   (c) provide for the registration of physical Planners,  and
   (d) Provide for disciplinary procedures for errant physical planners.
8. THE EAST AFRICAN CRUDE OIL PIPELINE (SPECIAL PROVISIONS) BILL, 2021
   This is one of the three new Bills that have been introduced for enactment by the 11th Parliament.
   The Bill seeks to facilitate the implementation of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline Project in Uganda and to implement the obligations of Uganda under the intergovernmental Agreement and the Host Government Agreement and for related matters. Its 1st reading was on 5th October, 2021. It’s under The Environment and Natural Resources Committee.
9. THE PUBLIC FINANCE MANAGEMENT  (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2021
   It’s also a new Bill. Its 1st reading was on 5th October, 2021. 
   The Bill seeks to amend the Public Finance Management Act, 2015 to enable the National Oil Company to retain proceeds from the sale of petroleum arising from the State participating interests in the applicable petroleum agreements for purposes of meeting it’s financial obligations arising from the applicable petroleum agreements and Joint Operating Agreements in each financial year, based on the approved work programme and budgets for the financial year in issue; for meeting obligations on its own behalf as well as on behalf of the State as provided for in the relevant petroleum agreements and the East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline Act, 2021; to provide for the deposit by the National Oil Company of the balance from the proceeds retained into the Petroleum Fund and for the appropriation of funds to the National Oil Company for approved investments.
   This Bill is handled by The Finance, Planning and Economic Development Committee.
10. THE INCOME TAX (AMENDMENT) (NO.2) BILL, 2021
    This is the third new Bill. Its 1st reading was on 19th October, 2021. It’s under The Finance, Planning and Development Committee.
    The Bill seeks to amend the Income Tax Act, Cap. 340 to provide for windfall tax and limitation of deductions on petroleum operations.

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BY WASWA TENYWA
www.newseditor.co.ug

FEMALE journalists from the various regions across Uganda are advocating for better occupational safety policies and human rights while on job.
During a virtual workshop hosted by the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) Uganda in partnership with Journalism and Media International Center(JMIC) on Saturday, Eunice Kasirye the IAWRT Uganda chapter head, noted that safety and human rights are a pre-requisite at a workplace for mostly female journalists.
 “The platform of virtual networking has it’s fears. The same fears we get online are the same we face offline. If you frustrate the voice of a female journalist, you’re frustrating the voice of all the voiceless in the community. However, when a female journalist is given all the space and the power to do her job without being censored, the community benefits,” Noted Ms. Eunice Kasirye.
Violet Gonda the IAWRT president noted that the Association has been able to receive international support to start a pilot project on creating a digital safe house for female journalists adding that they female journalists suffer a lot everywhere.
Meanwhile Rouenah Kajumba, a TV  journalist in central region noted that issues concerning female journalists’ safety started with what society perceives as what a woman is and what a female journalist is.
She said that in a very patriarchical society where men have always taken lead, some female journalists fear to air their views because they will be termed as emotional and most threats are much more directed towards women than men while on duty.
She noted that men should be involved in discussions around the safety of female journalists.
“We are not only females in the field, but there are men as well. So if these male journalists don’t understand the female journalists, there’s no way we are going to uphold the issue of safety. When we leave our workplaces, the married go back to men.” She said, adding, “We have brothers and we work with men in different sections. So these people ought to understand what it means to be a woman because men are the very people that are exposing us to the things that make us unsafe while in the field.”
Caroline Bunga urged the journalists to task the public servants to provide information since the information act mandates any public officer to provide information except where the release is likely to prejudice the security or sovereignty of the state or interfere with the right to the privacy of any other person.

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BY KETRAH JJEMBA

SEVERAL Civil society organisations are threatening to close their operations in the country if the government doesn’t stop harassing their colleagues.
This is in relation to last week’s arrest of AFIEGO CEO Dickens Kamugisha and six staff of the Africa Institute for Energy Governance (AFIEGO) due to unknown reasons.
In August this year, the government ordered a number of NGOs including AFIEGO to halt operations. The NGO Bureau said these 54 groups were violating a 2016 law.
AFIEGO backs the Save Bugoma Forest Campaign (SBFC) and as such opposes oil developments and sugarcane growing in Hoima for nature good.
In a joint press briefing at Center for Constitutional Governance (CCG) in Ntinda a Kampala suburb, the executive director CCG Sarah Bireete explains that the attack on NGOs is intended to compromise the civil space which cannot be allowed.
Bireete noted that the NGOs are considering closing and operating informally.
At the same press briefing, the program manager at Governance ActionAid Uganda Mercy Munduru said that the government’s decision is likely to cripple social services that these NGOs render to the public.

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BY KETRAH JJEMBA
KAMPALA

THE Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) has revealed how cases of counterfeit have increased in the country since the outbreak of covid 19 in March 2020.
Other challenges recorded include change in symbols, use of same without changing the product among others have been recorded.
Carol Nazziwa from the Uganda Registration Services Bureau noted that in just two months they have registered over 76 cases of duplication of names of various companies.
She revealed this to the press while meeting with officials from Fohow International Uganda limited led by Daniel Tumushabe who cautioned various companies to be more keen with people who want to develop using other people’s business through duplication.

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BY KETRAH JJEMBA
MEDIA CENTRE

CABINET on Monday 25th October 2021 under the chairmaship of H.E the president Yoweri Museveni took a decision on signing and ratification of the Uganda – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) inter governmental agreement for the joint construction of road infrastructure.
Yesterday while addressing journalists at the Media Centre, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi the minister of ICT and National guidance said, “This will strengthen bilatel relations between Uganda and the DRC, increase volume of trade between Uganda and the DRC and also improve people to people movement and security.”
Baryomunsi noted that this initiative is done to benefit trade because the eastern congo is not well developed and yet there is alot of trade and business in this area between Uganda and DRC.
Minister Baryomunsi also revealed that, “Cabinet also approved the implementation of the Amuru deed of settlement for the Amuru sugar works project.”
He said, this will enhance social economic transformation of the Amuru community as a result of established Agro – industry and infrastructure development.
This will also improve standard of living as a result of established Agro – industry by Amuru sugar works limited through the creation of employment particularly for unemployed youths.

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BY KETRAH JJEMBA

UGANDA Revenue Authority (URA) a few days ago kicked off the third edition of the e-bomba ya business summits with discussions on survival of businesses in the wake of the effects of COVID-19 pandemic.
The month-long virtual engagements are aimed tipping business owners on financial growth and fostering voluntary compliance. These have been incorporated with skills to help businesses thrive in the new normal.
According to the URA Ag. Commissioner General Abel Kagumire, majority of the businesses which were a big source of revenue for government have been greatly hit by the effects on trade by the COVID-19 pandemic and this has affected tax collections by the institution. 
Kagumire pointed out sectors like education, food services, accommodation, arts and recreation as those that have been grossly affected in this era.
Collections from the food service and accommodation hit a dive of 37% especially because the sector is driven by tourists who were locked up in their respective countries. 
He however says that the revenue body is hopeful of a change in the sector collections because of the vaccines that are making travels much safer.
The e-bomba ya Business summits will run in series on Fridays up to 12th November 2021. The first episode of the summits has focused on survival through the pandemic with deep conversations on business financing and alternative skills adoption by sectors grossly affected by the COVID-19.
The discussants included; Ag. Commissioner General Abel Kagumire, Private Sector Foundation Uganda’s Ruth Biyinzika, the Managing Director Centenary Bank Fabian Kasi and Price Waterhouse Coopers’ Crystal Kabajwara and moderated by NBS TV’s Mildred Tuhaise.
Mr. Kagumire revealed that, unlike the past where the tax burden was carried by a few entities, the authority is to embark on expanding the tax register so that the businesses recovering from the pandemic effects are not overwhelmed
“URA has embarked on expanding the taxpayer register because we know that there are many Ugandans out there in profiting business but are not paying taxes. We intend to achieve this with comprehensive tax education so that everyone contributes to betterment of this country” said Kagumire
Uganda’s tax burden was held by slightly over 1.7 million taxpayers by the end of financial year (FY) 2020/21. However, this figure is expected to expand by 400,000 additions as the authority is set to have 2.1 million taxpayers by the end of FY 2021/22.
Ruth Biyinzika cautioned business owners against unnecessary expenditures as they recover from the pandemic emphasising that all resources are now needed for business survival. She pointed to the need for effective financial management in order for business owners to turn around operations for the better.
URA started the e-bomba ya business summits in 2019 as one of the activities in the Taxpayers Appreciation Month to equip business owners with necessary skills for financial growth and these were held at Kololo independence grounds.
However, due to the pandemic, these went virtual to cope with the standard operating procedures to curb COVID-19. URA will continue to equip segmented taxpayers with skills to thrive financially as it marks a 30-year anniversary. A similar engagement will be held for the youth in January in an Open Minds Forum Engagement.

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BY KETRAH JJEMBA
KAMPALA

THE Uganda Aids commission on Tuesday launched the National Policy Guidelines on Ending HIV Stigma and discrimination.
While presenting the contents of the policy in Kampala, the Executive Director of the Commission, Dr Nelson Musooba said, the objectives of policy guidelines is to provide stakeholders and the public with guidelines on non stigma and discrimination to enable them take appropriate actions to protect themselves and the communities.
The policy is also to improve access to and utilization of health and other services by people living with and affected by HIV especially where there has been punitive laws, policies and practices which violate human rights.
Dr Musooba noted that the Commission has secured funds to roll out the policy across the country that will help in eliminating the rising vice of stigmatizing people living with HIV/AIDs.
While launching the guildlines the minister for presidency Milly Babalanda has appealed to all ugandans to go and test for HIV.

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