EXPLAINER: Why Some Ugandan MPs Took Their Oath Without a Bible or Quran

As Uganda concluded the swearing-in of Members of Parliament for the 12th Parliament, several legislators attracted public attention after taking their oath without holding a Bible, Quran, or any other holy book.

Among them was Ofwono Opondo, whose choice sparked debate online and among political observers over whether such an oath is legally valid in Uganda.

Under Ugandan law, however, MPs are fully permitted to take a secular affirmation instead of a religious oath.The legal foundation for this is found in the Fourth Schedule of the 1995 Constitution and the Oaths Act, both of which provide two recognised ways for public officials to assume office.

The first is the traditional religious oath, where a person swears “in the name of the Almighty God” and often concludes with the words “So help me God.”

The second is a secular affirmation, in which an individual simply “solemnly affirms” their commitment to carry out their duties faithfully.

This second option does not require mentioning God or using any holy book.In practice, MPs who take the religious oath usually hold a Bible or Quran while reciting the prescribed words. Those who choose affirmation normally raise their right hand or stand and read the affirmation without any religious text. Legally, both forms carry equal authority.

An MP who affirms instead of swearing remains fully bound by the Constitution and faces the same legal consequences for violating the oath of office. The law makes no distinction between a religious oath and a secular affirmation in matters of legitimacy, accountability, or enforceability.

This principle is rooted in constitutional protections for freedom of conscience and belief. Although Uganda is largely religious and most public ceremonies feature Christian or Islamic symbolism, the law also recognises citizens who may not follow a religion, object to religious wording, or prefer a secular pledge.

Ultimately, the Constitution makes it clear that commitment to public office is measured by the legal promise a leader makes, not by whether that promise is expressed through a religious oath or a secular affirmation.