Namuganza: My Journey to Parliament

A New Dawn for Uganda’s Parliament – Restoring Dignity and Honouring Our Liberation Legacy
Dear fellow Ugandans,

I, Hon. Princess Persis Namuganza, Bukono County MP-elect and proud daughter of the soil, stand before you today as we begin this 30-day journey of reflection, vision, and hope for the Speakership of the 12th Parliament.

Since our independence in 1962, Uganda’s Parliament has been led by distinguished Speakers: Sir John Bowes Griffin, who laid the foundation; Narendra Patel; Edward Rugumayo; Francis Butagira; James Wapakhabulo; Francis Ayume; Edward Ssekandi; Rebecca Kadaga; and now Anita Among. Some served with integrity and upheld the dignity of the House. Yet recent years have seen our Parliament’s image tarnished by scandals of corruption, misuse of public funds, disrespect to Members, opaque appointments, and unchecked power bases, issues that have drawn international sanctions and national embarrassment.
This does not define Uganda. The men and women who went to the bush under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa fought not for personal gain but for a sovereign, prosperous nation. Their sacrifices built the NRM and the foundations of our democracy. We cannot sit idly while a small circle of individuals risks wasting that hard-won legacy. This Speakership race is not a personal fight for positions, it is a national duty to reclaim our dignity.

Across Africa and the world, exemplary Speakers have shown what is possible. In South Africa, Frene Ginwala and Thoko Didiza built traditions of order, inclusivity, and democratic accountability from the ashes of apartheid. In Ghana, Alban Bagbin has demonstrated impartiality and respect for all sides. Globally, Speakers like Lindsay Hoyle in the UK uphold strict rules of procedure, ensure fair debate, and command international respect. We can and must match these standards.

My vision is clear: a Parliament where every MP is respected regardless of party or region; where appointments are merit-based and transparent; where corruption is confronted without fear or favour; where power is exercised with discipline, not dominance; and where debates are efficient, modern, and aligned with global best practices.

We demand a House that reflects the discipline, unity, and patriotism of the liberation struggle. We owe it to President Museveni, to the veterans, to our youth, and to every Ugandan who believes in a better tomorrow.

This is our fight for the good of the motherland. Together, let us speak up, set the example, and propel Uganda forward with honour.