Constituency support officers briefed on new Administration Act |24 July 2026
Constituency Support Officers (CSOs) attended an awareness session on the National Assembly Administration Act, 2026. The session, held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, highlighted significant institutional reforms designed to strengthen the independence and effectiveness of the Parliamentary Service.
Opening the programme, Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Azarel Ernesta, welcomed the CSOs and acknowledged their vital role in supporting members of the National Assembly and serving communities across districts.
She emphasised that the session provided an important opportunity for officers to engage directly with the reforms introduced under the Act and to better understand their place within the evolving Parliamentary Service.
She was joined on the panel by deputy Speaker Hon. Egbert Aglae, Clerk Tania Isaac, and legal and research advisor Catherine Ombima.
Key provisions of the Act
Mrs Ombima delivered the main presentation, outlining the Act’s provisions and their implications for the Parliamentary Service.
She confirmed that CSOs are now formally part of the Parliamentary Service and will no longer be referred to as “political aides”. This change reflects the Assembly’s commitment to professionalism, neutrality, and independence in its administrative structures.
She explained that the Parliamentary Service is guided by six strategic pillars aimed at strengthening effectiveness and independence:
- Autonomous Parliamentary Service
- Financial and administrative self-governance
- Enhanced security
- Stronger legislative and oversight functions
- Transparency and accountability
- Welfare of members
Together, these pillars provide a framework for a more resilient, professional, and well-governed parliamentary institution.
Interactive discussion
The session concluded with a lively question-and-answer segment, where participants sought clarification on practical matters such as IT support in districts, salary-related issues, and working hours. This dialogue allowed officers to raise concerns and receive guidance on matters affecting their roles within the Parliamentary Service.
The awareness programme formed part of the National Assembly’s ongoing efforts to ensure that CSOs are well-informed about the Administration Act and the reforms aimed at strengthening the institution’s independence, effectiveness, and service to the nation.
(The accompanying photos show highlights of the session)
Press release – National Assembly