Minister for Internal Affairs Gen Kahinda Otafiire has finally spoken out about the growing corruption controversy surrounding Parliament, admitting that even he was surprised by some of the things he witnessed within the institution. His remarks come at a time when political tensions are rising and investigations linked to alleged corruption continue to dominate national debate.
Speaking shortly after Thursday’s swearing-in ceremony, Otafiire delivered a blunt message about the kind of leadership he believes Parliament urgently needs. The veteran politician said Uganda deserves a Speaker who is honest, disciplined, and capable of restoring the dignity and respect of the country’s legislative institution.
“I need a Speaker who is honest and truthful—one who restores dignity and respect to our Parliament. Not a hypocrite, not a thief, and not a person of immoral behaviour,” Otafiire declared in remarks that immediately triggered intense public discussion.
Although he did not directly mention Speaker Anita Among by name while making the comments, many political observers interpreted his statements as a clear reaction to the ongoing corruption allegations and controversies that have overshadowed the 11th Parliament in recent months.
Otafiire further admitted that despite being a Member of Parliament, he has not actively participated in plenary debates since the beginning of the current parliamentary term. According to him, most of his attention has been focused on his responsibilities at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and committee assignments.
“I have not been on the floor of Parliament since the term began. I have been concentrating on ministry work and committee assignments, but I was also shocked by some of the things I saw happening,” he revealed.
His remarks have added fresh weight to the growing criticism facing Parliament, which has recently come under heavy public scrutiny over corruption allegations, controversial spending, and claims of misuse of public funds.
The outspoken Ruhinda North MP also explained that he deliberately chose to avoid internal parliamentary conflicts that have increasingly spilled into the public domain. Instead, he said he preferred concentrating on his ministerial duties rather than engaging in endless political wrangles.
However, his comments now place him among senior ruling party figures openly expressing concern about the state of Parliament and the direction of its leadership ahead of the anticipated 2026 political transition.
The debate over the next Speaker intensified further after Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly endorsed Minister Oboth Oboth for the Speakership position. Muhoozi’s endorsement immediately sent shockwaves through political circles and sparked speculation about a major power shift within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
In a series of strongly worded posts on his official X account, Muhoozi praised Oboth Oboth’s performance in government and openly declared support for him to become the next Speaker of Parliament from 2026 to 2031.
“He has been the best minister in our government for the past five years. I want to be the first to endorse him for Speaker of Parliament,” Muhoozi wrote, adding blessings and praise for the minister.
Political analysts quickly interpreted the endorsement as more than just a personal opinion. Many viewed it as an indication of growing support for leadership changes within Parliament and possibly a signal of decisions already being shaped behind closed doors.
The endorsement has also increased uncertainty surrounding the political future of Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa. With succession discussions intensifying, both leaders now face growing questions about whether they still command sufficient support within the ruling establishment.
Muhoozi further escalated the debate when he suggested that the race for Speaker may already be decided long before any official contest begins. According to him, the ruling camp had already agreed on its preferred candidate.
“We have already made our decision on the new Speaker,” he posted, adding controversial remarks suggesting that leadership should naturally belong to men.
His comments immediately triggered mixed reactions online, with some supporters applauding his confidence while critics questioned the implications of such statements on democratic competition and gender representation within leadership structures.
In another statement, Muhoozi appeared to dismiss the possibility of any serious contest for the Speakership altogether. He insisted that the matter had effectively been settled and warned against attempts to challenge the preferred direction of the ruling camp.
“There is no Speakership battle. Our God Jesus Christ won that battle a long time ago. We already have our new Speaker, supported by UPDF,” Muhoozi stated in comments that further fueled political debate nationwide.
The unfolding developments have deepened speculation about major changes expected within Uganda’s political leadership structures ahead of the next parliamentary term. Discussions within NRM circles are reportedly becoming increasingly intense as different factions position themselves for influence.
Meanwhile, the ongoing corruption investigations linked to Parliament continue to attract public attention, with many Ugandans demanding accountability and transparency from leaders entrusted with public resources.
For Anita Among, the pressure appears far from over. While no official conclusions have been announced regarding the investigations, the growing criticism from influential figures within government and the ruling party has significantly complicated her political standing.
As political temperatures continue rising, many observers believe the coming months could determine not only the future leadership of Parliament but also the broader balance of power within Uganda’s ruling establishment.
