184 MPs Take Oath as Uganda's 12th Parliament Commences

A festive mood enveloped the Parliament of Uganda as 184 Members of Parliament-elect were sworn in on the first of three days dedicated to this process, signaling the start of the 12th Parliament. The ceremony, presided over by Clerk to Parliament Adolf Mwesige, commenced early Wednesday morning and saw the newly elected legislators arrive with their families and supporters, amidst cultural entertainment.

Following their oaths, many MPs-elect shared their priorities for the upcoming term. Agriculture and improving household incomes emerged as key themes, with representatives like Hon. Lillian Aber (NRM, Kitgum District Woman Representative) emphasizing commercial farming and value addition. Others, such as Beatrice Akello Akori (NRM, Agago District), pledged to continue advancing the government’s socio-economic transformation agenda.

Speaker Anita Among urged the new MPs to focus on diligent service delivery, echoing President Yoweri Museveni’s call for hard work under the “Kisanja Hakuna Kulala” (no sleep) initiative. She lauded the outgoing 11th Parliament as one of the most representative in Uganda’s history.

Discussions also touched upon future directions, with Anne Adeke Ebaju (FDC, Soroti District) suggesting the parliament should address the transition of power. Annet Birungi, representing Workers, highlighted the need for a minimum wage, while veteran MPs like Robinah Nabbanja and Rebecca Kadaga reaffirmed their commitment to development projects and poverty alleviation through initiatives like the Parish Development Model.

The swearing-in exercise is scheduled to conclude on Friday, May 15, 2026, in anticipation of the 12th Parliament’s first official sitting on May 25, 2026.

Source: Parliament of Uganda