In the solemn confines of the Chamber on Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024, history unfolded as Sarah Aguti, the newly elected Member of Parliament representing Dokolo Woman, stood poised to take her oath. With a dignified escort by her fellow UPC Party MPs, Aguti embarked on her parliamentary journey, symbolizing the winds of change sweeping through Uganda’s political landscape.
Joined by three other newly sworn-in parliamentarians, the plenary session, under the stewardship of Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, witnessed the dawn of a new era in legislative representation. As the first to step forward, Honorable Sarah Aguti, carrying the hopes and aspirations of her constituency, solemnly pledged her allegiance and commitment to the duties of a Member of Parliament, succeeding the late Honorable Cecilia Ogwal, who departed in January 2024.
The transition continued as David Ochwa assumed the mantle of Agule County MP, filling the vacancy left by Polycarp Ogwari following a recent Court of Appeal ruling. With legal clarity affirming his candidacy, Ochwa’s oath marked a pivotal moment in Agule County’s political narrative, signaling a fresh chapter of governance and accountability.
Accompanying these newly minted legislators, ex officio members Honorable Kenneth Omona, Minister of State for Northern Uganda, and Honorable Balaam Barugahara, Minister of State for Gender, Labour, and Social Development (Youth and Children Affairs), also took their solemn oaths. Their ascension to parliamentary duties paralleled their recent appointments to the Cabinet, underscoring their multifaceted roles in shaping Uganda’s socio-political landscape.
Reflecting on their newfound responsibilities, Honorable Barugahara reaffirmed his commitment to national service, while Honorable Omona expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to the hallowed halls of Parliament after a prolonged absence. Echoing their sentiments, Honorable Phiona Nyamutooro, Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), and General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Minister of State for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives (Trade), emphasized the transformative potential of harnessing Uganda’s natural resources for inclusive development.
In a poignant declaration, Honorable Nyamutooro lauded the visionary leadership of the President, acknowledging the pivotal role of Uganda’s youth in driving progress and innovation. With a resolute pledge to champion the aspirations of young Ugandans, she articulated a vision of sustainable development fueled by the prudent utilization of the nation’s abundant resources.
As the parliamentary roster swelled to 556 members in the 11th Parliament, April 3rd, 2024, emerged as a watershed moment in Uganda’s democratic journey. With each oath taken, a chorus of hope resonated throughout the Chamber, heralding a future defined by integrity, inclusivity, and progress for all Ugandans.
