Politics 9 May 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Tayebwa Decries European Parliament's Interference in African Affairs
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has called on African legislators to vehemently resist external interference, particularly from the European Parliament, in their nations' internal matters, emphasizing the need for respect for African sovereignty. He cited instances of the European Parliament passing resolutions and summoning ambassadors concerning Ugandan and Tanzanian elections, and halting the East African Crude Oil Pipeline project. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4421/tayebwa-calls-respect-african-sovereignty
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, also serving as the President of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), has strongly urged African legislators to push back against increasing interference by the European Parliament in the internal affairs of African nations. Speaking at a meeting of the Eastern Africa Regional Parliamentary Group in Eswatini, Tayebwa stated that African countries deserve greater respect for their sovereignty.
Tayebwa specifically criticized the European Parliament’s resolution against Uganda’s elections and the summoning of Uganda’s ambassador, despite earlier positive assessments from EU observers. He questioned the European Parliament’s actions, stating, “we have not interfered in how they are doing their things with Russia. They should leave our countries alone.”
He noted similar interference concerning Tanzania’s elections and highlighted a 2022 resolution by the European Parliament to halt the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, which was later rescinded after firm opposition from OACPS members. Tayebwa stressed that such actions contradict the principles of mutual respect outlined in the Samoa Agreement.
Ugandan MPs present echoed these sentiments. Maurice Kibaalya questioned the credibility of international agreements, while Amos Kankunda condemned “external meddling in domestic governance.” Dickson Kateshumbwa underscored the centrality of sovereignty in international engagements.
Tayebwa also advised African legislators to unify around clear, shared priorities for stronger negotiation positions. He pointed to the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical economic bloc for Africa, alongside concerns about non-tariff barriers hindering African exports to Europe while European goods face fewer restrictions.
The lawmakers also raised questions about climate financing, highlighting the gap between international pledges and the actual disbursement of funds to African nations.
Source: Parliament of Uganda