Speaker Jacob Oboth-Oboth is facing sharp criticism from UK-based human rights activist Samuel Mugabe Kabyesiza, widely known as Jungle Man Ug, who has questioned both the process that led to his elevation and his independence in office.
In a statement, Kabyesiza alleged that Oboth’s appointment was influenced by powerful actors within the ruling establishment, claiming that the process lacked institutional autonomy.
He controversially stated that the Speaker was “appointed through a tweet” linked to General Muhoozi Kainerugaba who made an X post supporting the former defence minister for Speakership.
Kabyesiza further alleged that Oboth is under close surveillance by security operatives, claiming that members of the Special Forces Command (SFC) are embedded within his security detail.
According to him, these operatives are tasked with monitoring the Speaker’s political posture and ensuring he does not develop ambitions perceived to be contrary to what he described as the “Bahima dynasty,” a term often used in political discourse to refer to perceived power structures within Uganda’s leadership.
“The new Speaker now has spies disguised as bodyguards from the SFC monitoring him to see whether he harbors any political ambitions,” Kabyesiza claimed.
He went on to question Oboth’s authority within Parliament, arguing that the real power lies elsewhere. “Oboth should know that he’s a dummy speaker.
The real Speaker is Tayebwa. You can disagree with me today but one day you’ll agree with me,” he added.
These remarks come just days after Oboth was overwhelmingly elected Speaker during the first sitting of the 12th Parliament, securing 441 votes out of 519 cast in a secret ballot overseen by Chief Justice Flavian Zeija.
His victory followed endorsement by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), which traditionally commands a majority in Parliament.
While Kabyesiza’s claims introduce a critical perspective on the Speakership, there has been no official response from Parliament, the Speaker’s office, or security agencies regarding the allegations.
As Oboth settles into office, attention is likely to remain on how he navigates expectations of neutrality, oversight, and legislative leadership amid growing political scrutiny.