Speaker Oboth declares accountability reset, vows to return Parliament to ‘factory default’

Speaker Oboth Vows Accountability Reset as Parliament Returns ‘to Factory Default’

Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth-Oboth has unveiled what he described as a major reset of Parliament’s operations, promising a renewed focus on accountability, integrity, and service to Ugandans.

Addressing Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff, Oboth said Parliament must lead by example if it is to effectively hold government institutions accountable.

“Parliament is the only place where accountability makes sense, and it starts with us,” the Speaker said.

He stressed that Parliament cannot demand accountability from government ministries, departments and agencies if it is unwilling to subject itself to the same standards.

The Speaker warned accounting officers against corruption, misuse of public resources and attempts to influence oversight processes, saying reports from the Auditor General and Parliament’s accountability committees would be taken seriously.

“If you are a CAO, change your prayers. Be honest in what you do. You will come and go well,” he said.

Focus on Service, Not Personal Favours

Oboth praised previous parliamentary leadership for its contributions but indicated that the current administration would prioritize institutional service over personal interests.

He revealed that Parliament was undergoing reforms aimed at restoring its original purpose as a legislative and oversight institution.

“We are resetting Parliament back to the factory default,” he declared.

According to the Speaker, his office would no longer operate as a centre for personal donations and financial assistance.

“Those looking for donations should write to President Museveni, who is the chief donor of government,” he said.

Instead, he pledged to strengthen committee funding to enable MPs to perform their oversight duties independently and professionally.

“There is nothing demeaning as asking for *kitu kidogo* from those who are supposed to supervise,” he said.

The Speaker warned that Members of Parliament risk compromising their oversight role when ministries, departments and agencies appearing before committees provide them with financial support or favours.

Government Business Must Be Respected

Oboth said he assumed office in good faith and with a clear agenda to restore order and proper procedure in the House.

He emphasized that the Speaker’s role is not to dominate debate but to regulate parliamentary proceedings and ensure government business is transacted in accordance with the law.

“We’ve done some resetting, so fear not. I have come in good faith,” he said.

He also called for support for the Prime Minister in her role as Leader of Government Business, saying Parliament should facilitate the smooth consideration of government priorities while maintaining its oversight responsibilities.

Speaker Questions Delayed Chamber Construction

The Speaker also expressed concern over the prolonged delay in constructing Parliament’s new chamber, questioning why the project has remained unfinished more than a decade after it was initiated.

“A chamber taking from 2014 to date, unless you are building something else, but not that small Parliament,” he remarked.

Oboth suggested that the delays could not be attributed to lack of funding, noting that Parliament had received budget allocations for the project and that some funds were reportedly still held in accounts at the Bank of Uganda.

He alleged that vested interests seeking kickbacks may have contributed to the slow progress of the project.

“Me, a son of a peasant whom God has blessed to be a Speaker, what else can you do to me?” he said, emphasizing that he was not motivated by personal gain.

Humble Beginnings

Reflecting on his personal journey, the Speaker said his upbringing had shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to public service.

“I came from humble beginnings and God has blessed me with everything I need,” he said.

Quoting scripture, he added: “God, don’t make me too rich, or I will forget you. And don’t make me too poor, or I will go begging and I will curse you.”

Accountability at the Centre

The Speaker’s remarks signal a new approach to parliamentary leadership centered on accountability, institutional independence and disciplined oversight.

His call for stronger committee funding and reduced financial dependence on government agencies reflects concerns that Parliament’s watchdog role can be weakened when legislators become reliant on the institutions they are mandated to scrutinize.

The reforms, he said, are intended to restore public confidence in Parliament and ensure that the institution remains focused on serving citizens rather than individual interests.