EAC speakers should agree on the way forward

Editor, I wish to react to a story that appeared in The New Times yesterday about the differences that have emerged between the Speakers of the East African Community (EAC) partner states over whether or not to fast track the integration process.Despite different views, the Speakers need to discuss and agree on these issues in the best interest of the people they represent. We, the ordinary citizens, sometimes get worried that all the promises and expectations will evaporate in thin air if our leaders continue to fail to reach an agreement on issues that are so close to our hearts.The two divergent views highlighted on the envisaged political federation must be discussed and a common stand found. Those who favour the progressive integration process could be having a genuine point and must be listened to. And those who argue that political federation should be fast tracked have a valid point too.The Speaker of Tanzania’s Parliament who argue that her country’s internal situation cannot allow the country to be fully engaged in integration within the EAC now must be given time to think about the importance of integration. I hope that by the end of their meeting, the Speakers were able to come up with a positive way forward that will benefit all the member countries and the citizens of the region.Agnes MukisaKabeza

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EAC speakers should agree on the way forward