East Africa: EAC Treaty Need a Review - Civil Society

4 November 2024
Nile Post (Kampala)
By Sam Ibanda Mugabi

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Uganda are pushing for a review of the East African Community (EAC) treaty to address evolving challenges and aspirations of partner states.

They expressed concerns before the East African Legislative Assembly's Committee on Regional Affairs and Conflict Resolution in Kampala.

"The EAC treaty must be re-aligned to address the evolving challenges and aspirations of EAC partner states for enhanced regional cooperation and integration," said Herbert Kafeero, Programs and Communications Manager at SIATINI-Uganda.

CSOs highlighted breaches of key debt indicators under the region's macroeconomic convergence criteria, advocating for a common public debt management framework.

"We need a strong dispute resolution mechanism to address recurrent non-tariff barriers," added Aloysious Kitengu from SIATINI-Uganda. "The East African Court of Justice is overwhelmed and cannot resolve issues in time."

Committee members welcomed the proposals, suggesting permanent and pensionable judges for the East African Court of Justice.

"This will ensure timely resolution of disputes and strengthen the bloc," said a committee member.

The CSOs also urged EAC member states to ratify the EAC model double taxation treaty to facilitate regional trade.

Read the original article on Nile Post.

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