Politics 26 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Tororo Rejoices as Jacob Oboth-Oboth Elected Parliament Speaker
The election of Jacob Oboth-Oboth as Speaker of Parliament has sparked widespread celebrations and expressions of hope across his home district of Tororo. Residents and cultural leaders view his appointment as a significant step for regional representation and development. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/oboth-oboth-s-tororo-kins-celebrate-his-election-as-speaker-5474974
Tororo district erupted in celebration following the election of Jacob Oboth-Oboth as Uganda’s new Speaker of Parliament. Drumming, thanksgiving prayers, and impromptu gatherings filled streets and villages, with many viewing the moment as a personal victory and a historic achievement for the Bukedi region.
Local leaders lauded President Museveni and the Parliament for entrusting Oboth-Oboth with the high office, citing his 15 years of parliamentary experience as a solid foundation for his leadership. Josel Obbo, Prime Minister of the Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution, expressed confidence in Oboth-Oboth’s ability to “steer the house well” and urged him to uphold human rights in legislation.
The elevation is also seen as a boost for regional balance. Phibby Awere Otaala, former High Commissioner to Kenya, highlighted the potential for long-pending presidential pledges, such as upgrading Tororo General Hospital and compensating war victims, to gain momentum. She emphasized the need for accountable representation and cautioned against laws serving narrow interests.
Residents shared their hopes for tangible benefits, with farmers and small business owners like Benjamin Olem anticipating increased support for agriculture, market access, and rural infrastructure. Businessman Apollo Ekakoro at the Malaba border expressed a desire for Oboth-Oboth to help revive clearing and forwarding operations, recalling his past role in enhancing cross-border trade.
Political analyst Gonza Paul described the election as both symbolic and strategic, suggesting it signifies the region’s growing political influence. Religious leaders, including Bishop Samuel George Bogere Egesa and Dr. Girado Olukol, offered congratulations while also urging the new Speaker to learn from past controversies and work impartially for all Ugandans.
Tororo LC5 Chairperson John Okea underscored the hope that Parliament will now better reflect “everyday concerns from jobs and healthcare to local services,” calling for the protection of democratic processes and inclusive dialogue. The appointment addresses a historical gap, marking the first time someone from Bukedi holds the speakership, with hopes it will serve as a “launch pad for development, not division.”