His election marks a major leadership change in Parliament, bringing an end to the tenure of Anita Annet Among, who served as Speaker of the 11th Parliament.
The vote was presided over by Chief Justice Flavian Zeija and attracted strong competition from Jinja South East MP Paul Mwiru and Laroo-Pece Division MP Norbert Mao.
Jacob Oboth-Oboth won by a landslide, securing 441 votes out of 519 cast. His closest rival, Paul Mwiru, received 60 votes, while Norbert Mao managed only 15 votes. Three ballots were declared invalid.
End of Anita Among’s Speakership
The election officially closes the chapter of Anita Annet Among’s leadership in Parliament, a position she assumed in March 2022 following the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah in the United States.
Her time in office was marked by both strong control of parliamentary proceedings and growing political tension, especially in the later stages of her leadership.
She withdrew from the race for re-election ahead of the new parliamentary term after reports of security operations at her residences in Nakasero, Kigo, and Bukedea District, linked to ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and financial misconduct.
In her statement, she said the decision followed consultations and was aimed at maintaining stability within the ruling establishment.
Growing Questions About Her Political Future
With her exit from the Speakership, attention has now shifted to what comes next for Anita Annet Among.
Political observers suggest she now faces an uncertain path, with possibilities ranging from a low-profile government role to advisory or diplomatic assignments. Others believe she may choose to stay in politics from Parliament while managing ongoing legal and political pressure.
Analysts note that her influence has significantly reduced compared to her peak as Speaker, and her future will largely depend on how current investigations and political negotiations unfold.
A New Parliamentary Era Begins
The election of Jacob Oboth-Oboth signals a new direction for the 12th Parliament. Supporters describe him as a calm and steady leader expected to restore order and strengthen parliamentary oversight.
His leadership comes at a time when Parliament is expected to play a key role in shaping national priorities, including governance reforms, accountability, and legislative oversight of government programs.
As the new Speaker takes office, Uganda’s political landscape enters a fresh phase marked by leadership transition, shifting alliances, and renewed scrutiny of public institutions.
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