KAMPALA – The business of the 12th Parliament is now fully underway following a series of decisive events that have set the legislative agenda for the coming term.
It all began with the election of Rt. Hon. Jacob Markson Oboth Oboth as Speaker of Parliament, with Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa retaining his position as Deputy Speaker. Their ascension to the leadership of the House paved the way for the formal opening of the parliamentary session.
Shortly after, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni exercised his constitutional mandate by appointing 82 ministers – a leaner but strategically crafted cabinet designed to drive the government's agenda. The President then delivered the State of the Nation Address, laying out his vision and priorities for the coming year, which officially opened the parliamentary session.
Following the address, all eyes now turn to the reading of the national budget – the single most important piece of legislation that determines government spending and revenue collection for the financial year.
But even as the budget dominates discussions, another critical matter is fast approaching: the by-election to fill two vacant East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) seats.
The vacancies arose after Denis Namara (Buyaga West County) and James Kakooza (Representative for Older Persons) resigned from EALA after being elected to the Ugandan Parliament. With the by-election expected to take place this month, the clock is ticking for political parties to present their candidates.
As the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party prepares to bless its flag bearers, a growing chorus of voices is calling on the party leadership and President Museveni to endorse Dr. Ronex Tendo Kisembo for one of the two EALA slots.
Supporters of Dr. Kisembo argue that he is not just any candidate – he is tested, tried, and has been at the forefront of East African integration and development for years. They believe his deep understanding of the East African Community (EAC) protocols, coupled with his qualifications and experience, make him the ideal person to represent Uganda in Arusha.
"Dr. Kisembo is well-versed with East Africa," said one supporter. "He doesn't need on-the-job training. He has been living and breathing regional integration. The NRM and the President should trust him, and MPs should send him to EALA."
With the by-election imminent, pressure is mounting on the NRM Electoral Commission and the party's Central Executive Committee to green-light Kisembo's candidacy. Supporters are now appealing directly to Members of Parliament – who will vote for the EALA representatives – to rally behind a man they believe will make Uganda proud on the regional stage.
The Speaker has signaled that the House will first conclude the budget process before turning its attention to the EALA by-election. But with the election expected this month, the behind-the-scenes lobbying is already intense.
For Dr. Ronex Tendo Kisembo and his supporters, the message is clear: Give us the blessing, and we will deliver.
