It was tension, anticipation and political drama at Kololo Airstrip as MPs voted in a fiercely contested race that ended with Jacob Oboth-Oboth emerging victorious as Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament.
The West Budama Central legislator secured the powerful position after a high-stakes contest closely watched across the country, instantly placing him at the center of Uganda’s political leadership for the 2026–2031 parliamentary term.
Moments after being declared winner, Oboth-Oboth addressed the House in an emotional speech filled with gratitude, reflection and strong declarations of faith.
The new Speaker told MPs that patience, consistency and faithfulness had carried him through his political journey, saying leadership comes at the appointed time.
He then quoted Isaiah 60:22 from the New King James Version:
“A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation. I, the Lord, will hasten it in its time.”
Oboth-Oboth followed it with another powerful scripture from Habakkuk 2:3:
“For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”
The remarks drew attention inside the chamber as MPs listened to the man now tasked with steering parliamentary business during what is expected to be a politically charged term.
Oboth-Oboth also pledged to serve the House with fairness and dedication as he officially takes over one of the most influential offices in the country.
His election now marks the beginning of a new era in Parliament, with Ugandans already watching closely to see how he will handle the intense political debates, legislative battles and national issues expected in the coming years.