Joy, excitement as Parliament vets new ministers

It was all a moment of joy mixed with splendid glamour and excitement as Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Anita Among Monday vetted the newly appointed ministers at Parliament Chambers in Kampala.

The new state ministers vetted include events promoter and businessman, Mr Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi (Youth & Children Affairs), Ms Lillian Aber (Relief and Disaster Preparedness), Phiona Nyamutoro (Minerals), Kenneth Omona (Northern Uganda Affairs), Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi (Trade) and Ms Florence Wamala Nambozo.

The six appointees who appeared in President Museveni’s reshufle list arrived at Parliament Buildings on Monday ready to serve in the NRM government.

The constitution requires that certain personnel appointments made by the President must be approved by Parliament to ensure that a person seeking to serve in a certain position has the necessary education, work experience, competence, temperament, vision and integrity.

Speaking shortly after his nomination, Balaam applauded the speaker and all the other members of the committee for professionally handling this exercise.

“Like I recently stated, the mission is partly to socially and economically better the lives of the Ugandan youth as well as improve their health and that of the children in Uganda,” he said, adding that he will advocate for the release of NUP supporters so that they can venture into productive ventures for their own well-being.

The new Minister of State for Minerals, Ms Phiona Nyamutoro shortly after her vetting said; “This morning, I was vetted as the designated Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals) by the Appointments Committee chaired by Speaker Anitah Among.”

“I am grateful that the journey to adding more blocks to Uganda’s development is relentless,” she added.

Lillian Aber, the state minister for relief and preparedness posted via X after her vetting saying; “I have successfully been vetted by the Appointments Committee at Parliament. Thank you, speaker, and the entire committee for the good work.”