Jacob Oboth-Oboth has downplayed reports linking him to the race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament, saying he is not aware of any endorsement for the position.
His remarks come shortly after Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly endorsed him for the influential parliamentary role, sparking debate within political and ruling party circles.
Muhoozi had praised Oboth-Oboth as a capable leader suited to guide Parliament during the 2026–2031 term, describing him as one of the government’s best-performing ministers.
The endorsement quickly generated discussion on social media and within the ruling National Resistance Movement, where consultations over the leadership of the incoming Parliament are believed to be ongoing.
However, responding to the growing speculation, Oboth-Oboth said he had no knowledge of any formal endorsement connected to the Speakership contest.
Political observers interpret his response as a cautious move aimed at avoiding premature involvement in an internal contest before the ruling party formally agrees on candidates for parliamentary leadership positions.
The race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament is expected to attract intense political interest as newly sworn-in legislators begin organizing the House’s leadership structures.
Several senior politicians have already been linked to the position, although the NRM leadership has not yet officially unveiled its preferred candidates for Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
Current Speaker Anita Annet Among is among figures whose future role in the next Parliament remains the subject of ongoing political discussion.
