Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth has been elected Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament after securing a commanding 441 votes in a three-way contest held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Monday.
The NRM flag bearer and MP for West Budama Central defeated National Unity Platform’s Paul Mwiru, who garnered 60 votes, and Democratic Party President General Norbert Mao, who polled 15 votes. Three ballots were spoiled, while no MP abstained from voting. A total of 519 ballots were cast.
Oboth-Oboth was nominated by Vice President and Katakwi Woman MP Jessica Alupo and seconded by Minister Frank Tumwebaze, who described him as an experienced legislator and administrator well versed in parliamentary procedure and leadership.
Paul Mwiru, the NUP candidate and MP for Jinja South West, was nominated by Hassan Kirumira, the MP for Katikamu South, and seconded by Jinja City Woman MP Sarah Lwanga Bireete, who praised his legislative experience and commitment to strengthening Parliament’s oversight role.
Norbert Mao, the DP President General and MP for Laroo-Pece Division, was nominated by Tochi County MP Peter Okot and seconded by Aswa County MP Patrick Okello. His proposers argued that Mao’s experience in national politics and consensus-building would help strengthen parliamentary independence and debate.
Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, who presided over the election, declared Oboth-Oboth duly elected Speaker after the final tally. The victory had been widely anticipated following his endorsement by the NRM Caucus and the ruling party’s overwhelming numerical advantage in Parliament.
Results
- Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth (NRM) – 441 votes
- Paul Mwiru (NUP) – 60 votes
- Norbert Mao (DP) – 15 votes
- Spoilt ballots – 3
- Abstentions – 0
- Total ballots cast – 519