The legal framework for democracy in Uganda

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	The legal framework for democracy in Uganda
Author:	Khiddu-Makubuya, E.
Year:	1985
Periodical:	Mawazo
Volume:	6
Issue:	1
Pages:	10-26
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Uganda
Subjects:	democracy constitutional reform
Abstract:	After defining the means and ends of democracy, the author reviews the legacy of colonialism, and subsequent postindependence developments in the legal framework for democracy in Uganda. It is clear that a form of legal structure for the promotion of democracy exists in Uganda, such as the 1967 constitution, which provides for regular elections, carries a Bill of Rights, and enacts the doctrine of separation of powers. The same legal system, however, contains a number of elements inhibiting the democratic process, such as specific problematic emphases in the constitution, the antidemocratic provisions of the criminal law of sedition, various aspects of labour law, and the Public Order and Security Act No. 20 of 1967. Given that the practical realization of democracy in Uganda is a necessary condition for political stability, economic progress and social development, possible lines of action to this end are suggested, focusing, amongst others, on the leadership factor, Bill of Rights, direct presidential election, political parties, electoral commission, the Public Order and Security Act 1967, freedom of expression, free trade unions, instruments of coercion, and education for democracy. Notes, ref.