Acting UPDF spokesperson Chris Magezi has publicly welcomed President Yoweri Museveni’s endorsement of Jacob Oboth Oboth and Thomas Tayebwa to lead Uganda’s 12th Parliament, signalling institutional backing from the military establishment as political alignments take shape.
In a statement issued shortly after Museveni hosted the NRM parliamentary caucus at State House Entebbe, Magezi congratulated Oboth Oboth on his endorsement as Speaker and praised Tayebwa for retaining his position as Deputy Speaker.
“Heartfelt congratulations to the outgoing Minister Hon Marksons Jacob Oboth for the endorsement to the prestigious position and responsibility of Rt Hon Speaker of Parliament. I also congratulate comrade Thomas Tayebwa for retaining his position. Mungu awabariki,” Magezi said.
His remarks come in the wake of Museveni’s first public comments following the caucus decision, where the president endorsed the two leaders and outlined a broader governance agenda for the incoming Parliament.
Museveni used the meeting to caution NRM legislators against identity-based politics, urging them to prioritise service delivery and national development.
He emphasised that leadership choices should be guided by the needs of citizens rather than considerations of tribe, religion, or gender.
Magezi’s statement, though brief, aligns with the president’s message of unity and continuity, reinforcing the perception of coordinated support across key state institutions.
Oboth Oboth, who has been serving as a minister, now emerges as the NRM’s preferred candidate for Speaker, replacing outgoing leadership amid shifting political dynamics.
Tayebwa, on the other hand, is seen as a stabilising figure, having served in the Deputy Speaker role and maintaining influence within parliamentary structures.
Museveni’s emphasis on wealth creation and socio-economic transformation—particularly through sectors such as agriculture, ICT, and services—sets the policy tone for the 12th Parliament.
His directive places pressure on the incoming leadership to align legislative priorities with the government’s development agenda.
The convergence of political and institutional endorsements suggests a strategic effort by the NRM to present a united front ahead of the parliamentary leadership vote.
As the process unfolds, attention is expected to focus on whether the party can maintain cohesion while navigating internal competition and public scrutiny.
The election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker will be a defining moment, shaping not only parliamentary leadership but also the broader direction of Uganda’s governance in the coming term.