Long-Serving MPs Return as Uganda’s 12th Parliament Swearing-In Continues

As Uganda’s 12th Parliament officially began its swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, several veteran legislators once again returned to the August House, extending political careers that have spanned decades. By the close of the first day, 176 Members of Parliament had taken the oath, with the exercise set to continue on Thursday and Friday.

Among the most experienced legislators sworn in was Moses Ali, who first entered Parliament in 1961 during Uganda’s pre-independence era, making him one of the country’s longest-serving politicians.

Former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga also returned to Parliament once again. Kadaga has served continuously since 1989 when she joined the National Resistance Council, the precursor to Parliament under the NRM government.

Veteran minister Kahinda Otafiire, who first entered Parliament in 1996, also retained his seat and is back for another term in the House.

Another longtime legislator, Jim Muhwezi, first became MP in 1994 and remains one of the most experienced lawmakers in Uganda’s politics.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who first entered Parliament in 2001, was also among those sworn in on the opening day.

Speaker Anita Among returned to the House after first joining Parliament in 2016, while her husband Moses Magogo also took oath after retaining his Budiope East seat.

Vice President Jessica Alupo, who first entered Parliament in 2001, was equally sworn in as she begins another parliamentary term.

The swearing-in exercise at Parliament Building in Kampala will run until Friday ahead of the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament scheduled for May 25.