Sseggona cautions Speaker Oboth-Oboth against Museveni’s influence

Former Busiro East MP Medard Lubega Sseggona has warned newly elected speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth Oboth that he faces enormous political pressure as he assumes office.

Speaking to Bbeg Media at his office in Kampala, Sseggona said the current political environment could make it difficult for Oboth to exercise independence as head of Parliament.

Sseggona said the election of the speaker and deputy speaker was largely predictable because the ruling National Resistance Movement already had the numbers and influence needed to determine the outcome.

“The election of the speaker and deputy speaker was just a formality because by the time MPs went to vote, we already knew who the next Speaker would be,” Sseggona said.

He argued that the NRM’s dominance in Parliament gives the party overwhelming control over leadership positions.

He also criticised Museveni’s involvement in the process of selecting parliamentary leaders, saying it undermines the independence of Parliament.

Sseggona said a speaker backed heavily by the ruling party could find it difficult to challenge decisions made by the executive for fear of appearing disloyal.

He said that although Oboth is experienced, intelligent, and respected, he could still struggle to balance public interest with political loyalty.

Oboth has represented West Budama Central in Tororo for four terms and has served in several parliamentary and government roles.

He added that Oboth’s greatest challenge would not necessarily be managing Parliament itself, but handling pressure from the President and powerful political figures.

“The problem he is most likely to face is not the way the institution is run, but the orders from President Museveni and political godfathers to favour their interests at the expense of the country,” Sseggona said.

Sseggona argued that the executive has continued to dominate state institutions since 1986, making it difficult for Parliament to effectively represent Ugandans.

He also raised concerns about gender representation in leadership positions.

Sseggona said political parties still face challenges in promoting women into top leadership roles despite Parliament currently being led by men.

He called on Museveni to appoint more women to positions such as cabinet ministers, permanent secretaries, RDCs, and ambassadors to improve gender balance in government.

Oboth’s election as speaker comes at a time when Parliament is facing intense public scrutiny following allegations of corruption involving former Speaker Anita Among.