Speaker of Parliament, Oboth Oboth, has urged legislators to exercise integrity, accountability and humility in public service, warning that leadership must be reflected in the laws they enact and how they manage public resources.
Oboth made the remarks during an inter-religious prayers and thanksgiving ceremony held at Parliament on Friday, October 23, 2026, bringing together Christians, Muslims and other religious leaders to pray for the country and its leadership.
He said public office was a responsibility entrusted to leaders by the people, adding that Parliament must remain committed to improving the lives of Ugandans through responsible decision-making.
“I said that public office is a trust. That trust must show in the laws we pass, in how we use public resources and in how faithfully we represent our constituents,” Oboth said.
The Speaker said the 12th Parliament had made progress as an institution, which he attributed to God's grace, while reminding legislators that their positions came with an obligation to serve citizens.
He also challenged parliamentary staff to reflect on the prayer recited at the beginning of every sitting, which asks for wisdom and guidance in handling matters before the House fairly and faithfully.
Oboth said the prayer should guide Parliament's work and ensure that decisions made by lawmakers serve the interests of the people.
He noted that Ugandans expected their leaders to address everyday challenges, including access to quality education and healthcare, unemployment and the responsible use of public funds.
“Our people want a better life. Good schools and healthcare. They want jobs. They demand that we leaders lead by example and use public resources responsibly,” he said.
The Speaker also thanked the Rt. Rev. Samuel George Bogere Egesa, Bishop of Bukedi, for delivering a message that challenged leaders to examine their responsibilities and choices.
He said lawmakers needed the wisdom and courage to acknowledge and correct mistakes whenever they occurred, stressing that a people-centred Parliament depended on the conduct of those serving within it.
Oboth further expressed gratitude to religious leaders from different denominations, parliamentary staff and members who attended the ceremony.
He singled out Imam Kasozi Iddi, whom he said he first met at Makerere University in 1997, and praised the choir for its performance, particularly Hon. Zambaali Mukasa.
The Speaker concluded by calling for continued prayers for wisdom, courage and humility among leaders, reaffirming his commitment to serving Uganda.