Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has publicly endorsed Minister for Defence Jacob Oboth-Oboth for the position of Speaker of Parliament in the 12th parliament.
In a statement shared on social media, Gen. Muhoozi praised Oboth-Oboth’s performance in government, describing him as “the best Minister in our government for the past five years.”
“I want to be the first to endorse him for Speaker of Parliament (2026-2031). God bless Hon. Oboth-Oboth!” Gen. Muhoozi posted.
The endorsement immediately sparked political discussion within ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) circles, given the strategic importance of the Speaker position.
Oboth-Oboth, who has served as Minister of Defence, has in recent years gained prominence within government for his role in legislative coordination and defence-related matters. His calm public demeanor and close working relationship with top government officials have earned him growing influence within the ruling establishment.
Gen. Muhoozi’s endorsement is likely to intensify early succession conversations around the leadership of Parliament, currently headed by Speaker Anita Among. Although the race for Speaker is still days or weeks away, political observers say endorsements from influential figures within the NRM could shape internal alignments ahead of the next Parliament.
The comments also highlight the increasing intersection between Uganda’s political and security establishments as preparations for the 2026 elections gather momentum.
Neither Oboth-Oboth nor the NRM leadership had officially commented on the endorsement by press time.
