Uganda’s 12th Parliament has officially commenced its induction seminar at Speke Resort Munyonyo, with national leaders pledging accountability, unity, and citizen protection as the new House sets its legislative agenda. Leaders set the tone for a new legislative era, pledging unity, zero tolerance for corruption, and strengthened accountability.

Today marked the first day of the induction seminar for members of the 12th Parliament of Uganda, held at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, bringing together national leaders and equipping them with institutional knowledge, procedural skills, and ethical guidelines.

In her address, Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, confirmed that more than 700 Ugandans will be evacuated from South Africa following a wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Africans. This comes after a directive from President Yoweri Museveni, ordering an immediate evacuation ahead of the June 30th deadline set by South African authorities. The Prime Minister made the announcement during the induction of members of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, underscoring the government's commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad.

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth, highlighted a seven-point strategic vision of the 12th Parliament looking at zero tolerance to corruption, strengthened accountability, and people-centered legislation, among others.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja commended the achievements registered by the previous Parliament but noted the lingering of particular challenges. Addressing members of the 12th Parliament, she urged legislators to work collectively to strengthen key sectors, emphasizing the need to make education accessible to children across all regions while intensifying efforts to fight poverty.

She further pledged to present government business to the House, assuring members a response to all questions during her designated time in parliamentary sessions, and also committing to ensuring that ministers attend proceedings in full capacity, reinforcing accountability and active participation in the 12th Parliament.

On the other hand, the leader of the opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi called upon legislators to remain grounded, serving in accordance with the public trust accorded to them. He encouraged them to safeguard the independence of government, protect the culture of meaningful debate, and defend the principle of accountability of public resources.

He stressed that the rule of law must be upheld and never disregarded. He urged members to take charge and defend the very laws they enact, while condemning all forms of unlawful behavior.

As the session went on, different discussions were held involving various topics, including the Doctrine of Separation of Powers, effective use of the Rules of Procedure to improve governance, and discussing the Role of Parliament and the Public Service in transforming Uganda, among other issues.