Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth has announced a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the performance and independence of parliamentary oversight committees, with the Parliamentary Commission prioritizing full internal funding for committee operations to safeguard autonomy, boost efficiency and restore public confidence.
The initiative emerged July 8 during a courtesy meeting between Oboth and the Leadership Code Tribunal, led by Chairperson Dr. Roselyn Karugonjo-Segawa. Discussions centered on building institutional synergy to advance transparency across public sectors.
“Our goal is to ensure our committees are fully equipped and seamlessly supported by the Parliamentary Commission,” Oboth said emphasising that robust internal funding guarantees the absolute integrity of legislative work.
He said that by utilizing Parliament’s expanded Shs1.2 trillion budget, the Parliamentary Commission will fully facilitate all committees to do their work.
This financial framework ensures that committees remain entirely self-reliant and distinct from the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) they evaluate, allowing for objective and well-facilitated reviews.
Drawing on his extensive legislative background, Speaker Oboth reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to cultivating “leaders who stand above reproach.”
To support Members of Parliament in maintaining high standards of compliance, the Speaker proposed an innovative partnership with the Leadership Code Tribunal.
Under this framework, the tribunal will host proactive legal orientations and informational briefings for members, designed to serve as an educational resource, guiding lawmakers smoothly through the legal technicalities of declaring income, assets and liabilities.
“The Tribunal is a valuable partner for our lawmakers,” the Speaker observed, noting that proactive education will ensure all public representatives remain fully compliant with national frameworks.
He further pledged support to help the Leadership Code Tribunal achieve greater operational independence.
In response to reports that the tribunal currently spends an annual Shs734 million in commercial rent, Speaker Oboth encouraged the body to explore permanent office solutions within the Ministry of Justice complex, offering Parliament’s full advocacy to help them establish a permanent home.
The Speaker offered his commitment to champion policies that uplift national governance and support its strategic partners.
Dr. Karugonjo-Segawa expressed deep appreciation for Parliament’s open-door policy and progressive leadership.
Reaffirming the tribunal’s alignment with national goals of efficiency and transparency, she pledged that the tribunal would continue to discharge its mandate with the highest levels of integrity and impartiality.
