West Budama Central MP Marksons Oboth has dismissed reports linking him to a speakership endorsement by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, saying he has no knowledge of any such political backing and only learned of it from media reports.
Speaking to journalists on Friday at Parliament shortly after taking his oath of office as MP, Oboth appeared surprised by claims that he had been identified as a frontrunner for the Speaker of Parliament position.
He said he is not active on social media, a factor he suggested has kept him away from ongoing political discussions circulating online.
“I’m not aware of the Speaker endorsement,” he said when pressed by reporters about reports suggesting he had been publicly backed for the top parliamentary seat.
The remarks come in the wake of growing political chatter following public commentary attributed to Gen. Muhoozi, who reportedly expressed support for Oboth Oboth as a potential candidate for Speaker in the next Parliament.
The alleged endorsement has intensified debate within political circles, particularly around succession politics in the parliamentary leadership structure.
However, Oboth sought to distance himself from the speculation, insisting that his focus remains on his legislative duties following his return to Parliament. He did not confirm any engagement or consultation regarding a speakership bid.
“I am not on social media, so I don’t know what is being said there. I only hear about these things from journalists,” he added during a brief exchange with reporters, declining to comment further on whether he has political ambitions for the position.
The development adds a new layer of uncertainty to the emerging contest for the speakership, which is already attracting interest from senior political figures and members of the ruling establishment.
Reports of internal mobilisation efforts within political networks have further fuelled discussion about potential realignments ahead of the next parliamentary term, although no formal nominations for the speakership have been announced.
Oboth’s comments suggest a cautious stance amid rising political attention, as discussions around leadership positions in Parliament continue to gain momentum