Politics 8 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Deputy Speaker Tells EU Parliament to Cease Interference
Uganda's Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, has urged African legislators to resist what he termed as increasing interference by the European Parliament in the internal affairs of African nations. He called for respect for national sovereignty and self-determination. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/tayebwa-to-eu-parliament-stop-meddling-in-our-affairs-5451916
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has called on fellow African legislators to stand firm against perceived interference from the European Parliament. Speaking at a meeting of the Eastern Africa Regional Parliamentary Group in Eswatini, Tayebwa emphasized the need for respect for the sovereignty of African states.
Tayebwa, who also holds leadership positions within the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), expressed frustration over European Parliament resolutions that he believes contradict on-the-ground observations by EU missions. He questioned the credibility of resolutions made remotely via social media compared to the findings of deployed observer teams.
The Deputy Speaker highlighted recent European Parliament resolutions condemning elections in Uganda and Tanzania, and a previous resolution against the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, as examples of external meddling. He argued that such actions undermine mutual respect and the principles enshrined in agreements like the Samoa Agreement.
Several Ugandan legislators present echoed Tayebwa’s sentiments, raising concerns about the sincerity of international agreements if African sovereignty is not upheld. They stressed the importance of African nations managing their own internal affairs and addressing continental issues through African institutions.
The discussion also touched upon economic matters, including the African Continental Free Trade Area and non-tariff barriers hindering African exports to Europe. Concerns were raised about climate financing pledges versus actual support reaching African countries.