When NGO bill supporters kept quiet

Before now, some lawmakers and a few promoters of the bill had defended the legislation, justifying why it was good for the country. The bill with eight parts and 58 clauses has the following provisions – establishment of a commission, a board to regulate NGOs; power to license/register CSOs; sources of funding; and renewal of registration among others. However, during the hearing, only the CSOs and the NGOs opposing the bill spoke. They were so passionate, giving reasons why the bill “must be killed.” The supporters or promoters of the bill were nowhere to be found. The sponsor too was absent. The bill clearly suffered abandonment by its owners. None in the hall raised their hands to support the bill. It was either the supporters lost courage in the midst of the aggressive opposition to the bill or they no longer saw a reason to stand up for it. At a point, even the Chairman of the session, Mr. Peter Akpatason, had to ask if there were supporters in hall. The hall remained silent!]]>