MPs back UPDF deployment

By Mariam Nalunkuuma

Kampala December 13, 2006 – THE Great Lakes parliamentary Forum on Peace (AMANI) has backed the deployment of the UPDF in Somalia.

The AMANI representative in Uganda, Matthias Kasamba, (Kakuto) confirmed that the resolution was passed at their recent meeting in Kabale.

The UN Security Council last Wednesday resolved that Somalia’s neighbors deploy an 8,000-strong force, to boost security.

Kasamba urged stable governments in the region to support those undergoing transitions.

“We ask them to take necessary measures in supporting the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in Sudan and the ongoing dialogue in Somalia,” he said.

Kasamba told a press conference yesterday that governments in the region did not involve AMANI in the processes of peace and democracy.

“AMANI members support the initiative. Parliament has to approve the budgets to support the peace plan. So we do not have to be excluded.”

“We are concerned that in most areas, we are excluded from critical processes and that we are only called upon to ratify protocols in spite of our strategic importance in contributing to peace, stability and democratic governance,” Kasamba lamented.

He said political will, constructive dialogue and democratic governance are essential prerequisites for consolidating peace and promoting stability.

Source: The New Vision

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