Debate on the Marriage and Divorce bill hit a snag yesterday after Khiddu Makubuya, the Attorney General asked for more time to carry out further consultation on the bill.
The bill was scheduled for discussion on Monday. Yesterday, Khiddu Makubuya, the attorney general asked parliament to give him more time for further consultations.
He says that both people opposed to the bill and those in support of the bill need time to consult before it is debated and passed by parliament.
Daudi Migereko, the Government Chief Whip supported the Attorney general saying that there were other pending businesses that needed to be handled.
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Legislators under Uganda Women Parliamentary Association (UWOPA) today expressed disappointment at the manner in which the bill was handled yesterday.
Beatrice Lagada, Oyam District Woman MP was disappointed by the set back saying that worked hard that the bill passes before the end of the 8th parliament. She says that UWOPA traversed the country to consult the various regions and religious groups on the bill.
The main contention especially among the religious leaders has been the clause that permits cohabitation. They say that the bill will recognize cohabitation as a form of marriage in breach of their religious beliefs.
Christian leaders are also opposed to the clause allowing for divorce. Lagada notes that several amendments have been made to cater for such problems.
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Lagada is surprised that some religious leaders still contest on these issues yet they were consulted. She says that is unfair for religious leaders to distance themselves form the bill yet they were involved in the process.
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The women Parliamentarians are now requesting parliament to save the work for the incoming parliament to tackle the issues under the bill.
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Marriage and Divorce bill has been shelved in parliament for many years. The bill is intended to reform and consolidate laws relating to marriage, separation and divorce. It also seeks to provide for recognized marriages in Uganda.
