By Karim Were
Jacob Oboth-Oboth Markson has officially risen to the position of Speaker of Parliament following overwhelming endorsement from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), the 12th NRM Parliamentary Caucus, and earlier backing from Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the Patriotic League of Uganda.
His election marks a major political transition after former Speaker Anita Among withdrew from the race amid mounting pressure linked to corruption allegations that clouded the image of the 11th Parliament.
Oboth-Oboth’s victory was decisive during voting held at Kololo Independence Grounds, where he secured 441 votes, defeating Democratic Party president Norbert Mao who garnered 15 votes, and National Unity Platform’s Mwiru Paul who received 60 votes.
Shortly after being sworn in as Member of Parliament, the new Speaker hosted MPs, family members and supporters at his Mukono home for a thanksgiving ceremony attended by several NRM leaders and independent legislators who had initially backed Anita Among after the January 2026 elections.
Now taking charge of Parliament, Oboth-Oboth faces the difficult task of rebuilding public confidence in the institution after the 11th Parliament became heavily criticized over corruption scandals despite passing key legislation. Critics and observers frequently linked the controversies to the leadership of former Speaker Anita Among.
Political analysts say the new Speaker’s leadership will be closely watched as Ugandans expect reforms, accountability and a renewed image for Parliament.
