By Kafuko Peter
Then Uganda’s 11th Parliament opened its doors under the leadership of Speaker Anita Annet Among and her Deputy, Thomas Tayebwa, it did so at one of the most emotional moments in the country’s recent political history.
The death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah had left Parliament and the nation in mourning, and expectations were cautious about what would come next.
From the outset, the new leadership made it clear that their priority was stability. Rather than dramatic changes or loud declarations, they opted for calm stewardship—restoring order, encouraging dialogue, and rebuilding trust among Members of Parliament.
Over time, that approach has paid off. MPs from both the ruling party and the opposition now describe a House that feels noticeably calmer, more respectful, and more focused on business.
Debates that once easily descended into shouting matches have become more structured. Procedural stand-offs and walkouts, which used to slow down parliamentary work, have reduced.
Many legislators say there is now a stronger sense of collegiality, with disagreements handled through debate rather than confrontation.
A major factor behind this shift has been the strong working relationship between the Speaker and her Deputy. Unlike in previous parliaments, where leadership tensions sometimes stalled proceedings, the two presiding officers operate in sync.
When one is absent, the other steps in seamlessly, ensuring continuity. For observers, the result is a Parliament that feels steady, predictable, and better positioned to serve the country.
More Laws, Less Drama: Why the 11th Parliament Is Getting Work Done
Beyond the calmer atmosphere, the 11th Parliament has also distinguished itself through productivity. Under Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, the House has passed a record number of bills, surpassing the output of the previous Parliament.
This increased productivity has not happened by accident.
Parliamentary committees have become more active, sitting more regularly and handling their mandates with greater urgency. On the floor of the House, debates have increasingly focused on the substance of legislation rather than prolonged political point-scoring.
MPs point to the reduction in internal wrangles as a key reason for this progress. With fewer disruptions, Parliament has been able to process government business more efficiently. Bills that might previously have taken months to move through the system are now handled in a more timely manner.
There has also been a noticeable improvement in cross-party cooperation. While political differences remain, several opposition MPs have opted for constructive engagement on matters of national importance.
This has reduced legislative deadlock and allowed Parliament to concentrate on its core roles: making laws, overseeing government, and addressing issues that directly affect citizens’ daily lives.
For the public, this shift has translated into a Parliament that appears more focused on results than on drama—a welcome change for many who have long criticized the institution for inefficiency.
Why Museveni and NRM Are Standing by Anita Among and Tayebwa
The performance of the 11th Parliament has not gone unnoticed by the country’s political leadership. President Yoweri Museveni and the ruling National Resistance Movement have openly expressed support for Speaker Anita Among and her Deputy, signaling a preference for continuity at the helm of Parliament.
The President has particularly praised Speaker Among’s decision to go beyond the walls of Parliament and engage directly with communities across the country.
During her travels, she has observed development challenges firsthand, including poor road infrastructure, and brought these concerns into national discussion.
Museveni contrasted this hands-on approach with past leadership styles that were more office-bound, describing Among’s method as practical and people-centered.
For the NRM leadership, unity in Parliament is viewed as essential for stability and effective governance.
Party officials argue that internal divisions in the August House would slow government business and distract from development priorities. In this context, maintaining the current parliamentary leadership is seen as the safer and more strategic option.
Among many MPs, the prevailing mood is one of comfort with the status quo. With Parliament functioning smoothly, passing laws efficiently, and maintaining internal harmony, there is little appetite for disruption. For supporters of the current leadership, the logic is simple: if it is working, don’t fix it.