West Budama Central MP Jacob Marksons Oboth also kown as Oboth Oboth has been elected Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament after securing a commanding 441 votes during the first sitting of Parliament held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Monday.

The election, presided over by Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, marked the official commencement of the 12th Parliament for the 2026–2031 term. Members of Parliament gathered at Kololo to elect both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker in accordance with the Constitution.

Jacob Oboth Oboth in his speech highlighted his personal journey from humble beginnings in Muwafu, Tororo District, noting that his rise to the Speakership was a result of “divine grace” and years of “faithful and strategic patience.”

Oboth Oboth defeated National Unity Platform’s Paul Mwiru, who garnered 60 votes, and Democratic Party President Norbert Mao, who secured 15 votes. He now succeeds former Speaker Anita Annet Among, who served as Speaker of the 11th Parliament after replacing the late Jacob Oulanyah.

Following his victory, Oboth Oboth pledged to lead a corruption-free Parliament rooted in integrity, accountability, and service to Ugandans. He further committed to strengthening parliamentary oversight to ensure that public resources are protected and government actions are closely monitored in real time, rather than after losses occur.

“Under my leadership, we will cultivate a culture of absolute integrity and zero tolerance to corruption,” he said in his maiden communication as Speaker.

He also emphasized humility and servant leadership, telling legislators that the Speaker’s office “is not a throne” but a position dedicated to representing the voices and interests of Ugandans.

Oboth-Oboth further promised to treat all Members of Parliament fairly regardless of political affiliation and reaffirmed his commitment to restoring public trust in the institution. Oboth-Oboth assured lawmakers that he would serve all Members of Parliament equally, stating: “To those who did not vote for me, I will be your Speaker too.”

Shortly after the Speaker election, Ruhinda North MP Thomas Tayebwa was re-elected Deputy Speaker with 457 votes, extending his leadership role in Parliament after first assuming the office in 2022.

His challengers, Sarah Aguti and Nyakato Asinansi, received 14 and 45 votes respectively, according to results announced during the sitting.

The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) had earlier endorsed both Oboth Oboth and Tayebwa during a caucus meeting chaired by President Yoweri Museveni at State House Entebbe.

President Museveni attended the historic sitting at Kololo alongside top government officials, newly sworn-in MPs, and political leaders from across the country.

The 12th Parliament begins its term amid expectations of improved accountability, stronger legislative oversight, and renewed public confidence in Uganda’s legislative arm.