Parliament has granted Buyaga West MP Dennis Namara leave to introduce the Administration of Parliament (Amendment) Bill, 2026, a Private Member’s Bill that seeks to revise how the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) is selected.
The motion, tabled by Namara during plenary, received the support of the House after being seconded by fellow MPs Linos Ngompek and Guardian Opolot. The Speaker subsequently put the question to Parliament, with the motion passing on a voice vote.
Namara said the proposed legislation is intended to align the Administration of Parliament Act with constitutional provisions that require a consultative process in choosing the Leader of the Opposition.
“As earlier communicated, the Bill seeks to align the Administration of Parliament Act with the Constitutional provision that provides for a consultative process in choosing the Leader of Opposition in Parliament,” Namara said, adding that he would keep the public updated as the legislative process progresses.
According to discussions surrounding the proposal, the Bill could change the current system in which the Leader of the Opposition is nominated by the largest opposition political party represented in Parliament.
Instead, the proposed amendments are expected to introduce a broader consultative or voting process involving opposition Members of Parliament and independent legislators.
Supporters argue the changes would bring the law into conformity with the Constitution and promote wider consultation in selecting the Opposition leader.
However, critics contend that the proposal could reduce the authority of the largest opposition party and significantly reshape the structure of opposition leadership in Parliament.
With leave now granted, Namara is expected to formally draft and table the Bill for its First Reading, after which it will undergo committee scrutiny, public consultation and debate before Parliament decides whether to pass it into law.
