Politics 24 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Oboth and Tayebwa Poised for Speaker and Deputy Speaker Roles After NRM Endorsement
The ruling NRM party has endorsed Jacob Oboth Oboth and Thomas Tayebwa for Speaker and Deputy Speaker, respectively, as the new Parliament convenes. The duo is expected to win given the party's majority. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mps-oboth-tayebwa-stroll-to-speaker-coronation-race-5472056
The 12th Parliament is set to commence its business with the election of its Speaker and Deputy Speaker. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus has officially endorsed Budama West Central MP Jacob Oboth Oboth for Speaker and Ruhinda North County MP Thomas Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker.
This endorsement, confirmed after a meeting at State House Entebbe, positions the duo for a largely unopposed ascent to leadership, given the NRM’s significant numerical advantage in the House. The NRM holds 372 seats, far outnumbering the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) with 50 MPs and a substantial bloc of Independents.
While Mr. Oboth Oboth, the outgoing Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs, is expected to face competition from NUP’s Paul Mwiru, the overwhelming NRM majority makes his victory likely. Two other aspirants, Florence Asiimwe Akiiki and Alioni Yorke Odria, withdrew their candidacies in Mr. Oboth Oboth’s favor.
President Yoweri Museveni, addressing the NRM caucus, cautioned against greed and advised aspiring leaders to rise through the ranks. He stressed the importance of discipline and starting with smaller responsibilities.
Mr. Oboth Oboth’s legal acumen and command of parliamentary law were highlighted by party Secretary General Richard Todwong as key qualifications. His loyalty and role as a unifying figure were also cited. Thomas Tayebwa, the incumbent Deputy Speaker, was praised for his extensive experience, organizational skills, and potential to bring a fresh perspective.
The endorsement follows weeks of internal consultations within the NRM, partly influenced by the withdrawal of outgoing Speaker Anita Among amidst corruption allegations and investigations. Both Mr. Oboth Oboth and Mr. Tayebwa have pledged to address issues of maladministration and corruption within Parliament.
This development settles the race for the top parliamentary leadership positions, with the NRM caucus formally adopting the Central Executive Committee’s recommendations.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)