Museveni warns lazy leaders as parliament elects new speaker, deputy speaker
“Parliament must regain public trust through accountability, modesty, dignity, and unity in service,” he said.
Kampala: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has warned that he will take a tough stance against leaders who fail to prioritize the welfare of the people they serve, describing inactive leaders as betrayers of the country’s development agenda.
The President made the remarks during the First Meeting of the First Session of Uganda’s 12th Parliament held at Kololo Independence Grounds. His proclamation convening the session was read by the Clerk to Parliament, Adolf Mwesige.
Museveni expressed concern that many Ugandans remain poor despite significant government investment in wealth-creation programs.
“I’m in a position to be very rough with people who want a level of leadership but don’t care about the people they lead. I have already laid a trap for all those people through programs on the ground,” he said.
The President emphasized that substantial government funds have been allocated to parishes through initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), urging leaders to ensure the money benefits communities.
He warned ministers and local leaders that they would be held accountable if poverty persists in their areas despite the availability of government support.
Museveni also criticized leaders who focus on foreign interests while neglecting local development, urging them to prioritize lifting citizens out of poverty.
Ebola Precautions
The President used the occasion to remind Ugandans to observe preventive measures against Ebola, particularly in light of the outbreak linked to neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo.
He advised people to avoid unnecessary physical contact, including handshakes and hugging, noting that Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected individuals.
Oboth-Oboth Elected Speaker
The parliamentary session also saw the election of a new Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
Three candidates contested for the Speakership: Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, the ruling party candidate; Paul Mwiru, the joint opposition candidate; and Norbert Mao.
The election was presided over by Flavian Zeija, who guided Members of Parliament through the voting process.
Outgoing Vice President Jessica Alupo nominated Oboth-Oboth, citing his legal expertise, legislative experience, patriotism, and public service record.
Following the vote count, Oboth-Oboth emerged victorious with 441 votes, defeating Mwiru, who secured 60 votes, and Mao, who obtained 15 votes.
Chief Justice Zeija subsequently declared Oboth-Oboth Speaker-elect of the 12th Parliament. He later took the oath of office before President Museveni and received the instruments of authority, including the parliamentary mace, the national flag, the Constitution, the Rules of Procedure, and the Speaker’s robes.
In his acceptance speech, Rt. Hon. Oboth-Oboth pledged to strengthen accountability for public resources and lead a corruption-free Parliament.
“Parliament must regain public trust through accountability, modesty, dignity, and unity in service,” he said.
He attributed his overwhelming victory to faithfulness and strategic patience and promised visible reforms within Parliament.
Tayebwa retains deputy speakership
Meanwhile, Thomas Tayebwa was elected Deputy Speaker after defeating Asinansi Nyakato and Sarah Aguti.
Tayebwa secured 457 votes, while Nyakato garnered 45 and Aguti received 14 votes.
In his remarks, Tayebwa called for unity among legislators and urged Parliament to focus on socio-economic transformation and household wealth creation.
He thanked Members of Parliament across the political divide, the National Resistance Movement leadership, and supporters who backed his candidacy.
President congratulates new leadership
President Museveni congratulated the newly elected Speaker and Deputy Speaker, commending the transparency of the electoral process and the participation of opposition parties in the race.
He urged legislators to build on the gains achieved by the NRM government and work collectively to advance Uganda’s socio-economic transformation and national development.
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