Phiona Nyamutoro, Uganda’s Minister of State for Mineral Development and National Youth MP, strongly opposes proposals to eliminate youth parliamentary seats. Amid discussions to reduce Parliament’s size, some suggest removing special seats for youth. Nyamutoro argues this would hinder youth participation in governance
Nyamutoro highlights that youth MPs serve as a vital link between young people and the legislative process. “Our role is to amplify youth voices in Parliament,” she said, noting that affirmative action allows for youth representation through five regional youth MPs and one national youth MP.
Some argue that as more young people are elected through regular seats, youth-specific seats are unnecessary. Nyamutoro disagrees, stressing that youth MPs offer a unique perspective that aligns with young people’s specific need
Nyamutoro points to significant victories, such as securing 30% of funds from the Parish Development Model for youth programs and advocating for the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act, which mandates that 30% of local government contracts be awarded to young people
Nyamutoro firmly believes that removing youth seats would reverse the progress made in giving young Ugandans a voice in national decision-making. “Youth MPs deserve to stay,” she said, emphasizing their role in shaping the country’s future.
