MTIC directs on AGMs, elections for cooperatives
The Commissioner emphasised that the term of office for delegates and the Vetting Committee should not exceed four years, and societies must ensure that their membership and delegate registers are up to date before AGMs are held. Notification of AGMs must be sent to eligible members at least 14 days in advance, either electronically or through print media.
Barigye also highlighted the importance of fair and transparent elections within cooperative societies, advising that the list of candidates for elective positions should be included in the AGM notice or accompanying documents. Additionally, for cooperative unions covering large territories or more than three districts, participation in the vetting process should involve at least three District Cooperative Officers [DCOs].
The Commissioner concludes by encouraging cooperative societies to explore options for virtual participation in AGMs to include members who may be unable to attend in person, thereby enhancing engagement and participation.
These guidelines, as outlined in Barigye’s communication, aim to bolster the governance and operational effectiveness of cooperative societies, ensuring that they remain inclusive, transparent, and responsive to the needs of their diverse membership.KAMPALA, August 12, 2024 – The Registrar of Cooperative Societies/ Commissioner for Cooperative Policy and Development, Robert Bariyo Barigye, has urged cooperative societies in the country to consider adopting a delegate system for their Annual General Meetings [ AGMs ], especially those with a large membership base.
The recommendation, part of a broader set of guidelines aimed at improving representativeness and participation in AGMs, underscores the need for effective decision-making and inclusive deliberations within cooperative societies under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives [MTIC].
According to Barigye who released the circular on Monday, cooperative societies with 300 members or more should implement a delegate system to ensure that the diversity of membership is reflected in the decision-making process. This system is particularly crucial for societies that span large geographical regions or have a wide range of economic interests and professional categories. The guidelines also stress the importance of transparency and inclusivity in the selection of delegates, with a clear and transparent vetting process being essential.
The Commissioner emphasised that the term of office for delegates and the Vetting Committee should not exceed four years, and societies must ensure that their membership and delegate registers are up to date before AGMs are held. Notification of AGMs must be sent to eligible members at least 14 days in advance, either electronically or through print media.
Barigye also highlighted the importance of fair and transparent elections within cooperative societies, advising that the list of candidates for elective positions should be included in the AGM notice or accompanying documents. Additionally, for cooperative unions covering large territories or more than three districts, participation in the vetting process should involve at least three District Cooperative Officers [DCOs].
The Commissioner concludes by encouraging cooperative societies to explore options for virtual participation in AGMs to include members who may be unable to attend in person, thereby enhancing engagement and participation.
These guidelines, as outlined in Barigye’s communication, aim to bolster the governance and operational effectiveness of cooperative societies, ensuring that they remain inclusive, transparent, and responsive to the needs of their diverse membership.
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