Uganda’s Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Jacob Oboth-Oboth, has called on Ugandans to pray for Parliament, saying he wants the institution to be known for praise, power, integrity, and good laws rather than allegations of witchcraft and negative influences.
Speaking during a thanksgiving ceremony for newly appointed State Minister of Agriculture, Desire Muhooza, at Sheraton Hotel Kampala on June 8, 2026, Oboth-Oboth expressed concern over claims and perceptions linking Parliament to witchcraft practices.
“Pray for the leadership of this nation and for Parliament, so that it does not become a place where witchcraft is exalted. It should be a place of praise, power, and where good laws are made,” Oboth-Oboth said.
The Speaker’s remarks come just weeks after he was elected to lead the 12th Parliament on May 25, 2026, replacing former Speaker Anita Among. Backed by the NRM and the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), Oboth-Oboth assumed office with a pledge to champion accountability, fight corruption, and strengthen public trust in Parliament.
His comments have sparked discussion about the role of faith in leadership and the long-standing rumors that have occasionally surrounded Uganda’s political institutions. The remarks also reflect the growing influence of evangelical Christian beliefs within the country’s political landscape.
As he settles into his new role, Oboth-Oboth says his vision is to transform Parliament into an institution guided by faith, integrity, and service to the people, while ensuring laws passed by the House improve the lives of Ugandans.
Whether his call for prayer will help reshape public perception of Parliament remains to be seen, but the new Speaker appears determined to chart a different course for the institution.
