President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on members of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) to uphold discipline, unity, and collective responsibility as the party prepares for the leadership of the 12th Parliament.
Speaking during the first NRM Parliamentary Caucus meeting held at State House Entebbe, President Museveni emphasized the importance of restraint and maturity in the pursuit of parliamentary leadership positions, noting that while democracy allows individuals to express interest in leadership roles, party members must remain guided by discipline, experience, and the broader interests of the movement.
“During the liberation struggle, people did not volunteer for assignments. They went where they were directed to serve. Today, because there is peace and stability, many people are expressing interest in leadership positions. Democracy is good, but it must be accompanied by discipline,” President Museveni said.
The President encouraged leaders to build their leadership journeys gradually by taking on responsibilities step by step while avoiding unnecessary pressures and burdens.
“Discipline is essential. Leaders should start with smaller responsibilities, grow steadily, and avoid unnecessary debts and obligations,” he added.
During the meeting, the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) presented its recommendations for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament for the 12th Parliament.
For the position of Speaker, CEC recommended Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth Oboth, citing his legal expertise, leadership capabilities, and ability to unite members while effectively guiding parliamentary business. Following discussions, the NRM Parliamentary Caucus adopted the recommendation.
CEC also recommended Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa for the position of Deputy Speaker. The committee highlighted his extensive parliamentary experience, institutional knowledge, mobilization skills, and youthful energy as qualities that make him well-suited for the role.
According to CEC, Rt. Hon. Tayebwa’s service as Government Chief Whip and Deputy Speaker has provided him with deep experience in parliamentary procedures and legislative management. The committee further noted his strong capacity to mobilize party structures and communities, qualities considered critical in strengthening cooperation and consensus-building within Parliament.
The NRM Caucus subsequently endorsed the recommendation for Rt. Hon. Tayebwa to continue serving as Deputy Speaker.
Earlier, President Museveni congratulated the newly elected Members of Parliament and thanked them for their support during the recent elections. He reminded them that their election presents an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s development and transformation.
“I congratulate all of you upon your election to Parliament. I also thank you for supporting me. You now have an opportunity to make a significant contribution to your country,” President Museveni said.
The President cautioned legislators against repeating the mistakes made by previous generations of leaders, who promoted divisive politics based on religion and tribal affiliations. He noted that the NRM rejected such approaches from its inception and instead championed politics founded on ideology, national unity, and problem-solving.
“Politics should focus on what needs to be done, why it should be done, and how it should be done. Leadership begins with identifying the problems affecting the people and then providing the appropriate solutions,” he explained.
President Museveni further reminded Members of Parliament that their primary responsibility is to serve their constituents and contribute to improving household incomes and livelihoods rather than focusing on personal privileges.
In a demonstration of party unity and cohesion, all other candidates who had expressed interest in contesting for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker voluntarily stepped down in support of Hon. Oboth Oboth and Rt. Hon. Tayebwa, respectively, in the spirit of strengthening the National Resistance Movement.