Muhoozi Kainerugaba has publicly endorsed Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Jacob Oboth-Oboth for the position of Speaker of Parliament for the 2026–2031 term, adding momentum to early discussions on the leadership of Uganda’s 12th Parliament.
Muhoozi made the endorsement in a statement shared on Friday, where he praised Oboth-Oboth’s performance in government and described him as the best minister in the administration over the past five years.
“He has been the best Minister in our government for the past 5 years. I want to be the first to endorse him for Speaker of Parliament (2026–2031). God bless Hon. Oboth-Oboth!” he said.
The remarks have quickly circulated across political and social media spaces, with analysts interpreting them as an early signal of lobbying for the powerful Speakership position ahead of the next parliamentary term.
Oboth-Oboth, who currently serves in the Defence and Veteran Affairs docket, has in recent years maintained a high-profile role in government, particularly on national security and defence coordination. His visibility within Cabinet has steadily grown, placing him among influential figures in the current administration.
While he has not officially announced any bid for the Speakership, Muhoozi’s endorsement is expected to fuel further speculation about potential contenders for the seat, which is currently held by Anita Among.
The Speaker of Parliament is one of the most influential constitutional offices in Uganda, responsible for presiding over House proceedings, guiding legislative business, and maintaining order in Parliament.
Political observers say early endorsements such as this often shape behind-the-scenes negotiations within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), especially as preparations for the 2026 general elections and the formation of the next Parliament intensify.
Muhoozi’s statement adds another layer to the evolving political conversation about leadership succession in Uganda’s legislature, as attention gradually shifts toward the 2026–2031 parliamentary term.
