The Uganda National Women’s Council has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding the next Speaker of Parliament, saying its main concern is not necessarily having a woman occupy the top parliamentary leadership position, but ensuring that whoever assumes office advances the women’s agenda.
The remarks follow the withdrawal of former Speaker Anita Among from the race and the endorsement of Jacob Oboth-Oboth for Speaker and Thomas Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker — a development that has significantly reduced the chances of a woman holding either of the two top parliamentary positions.
Addressing journalists at the Council offices in Ntinda, Uganda National Women’s Council Chairperson Hajjat Faridah Kibowa said women in Uganda have, over the years, benefited from opportunities created by the NRM government and President Yoweri Museveni.
She, however, urges women not to feel sidelined if the positions are this time occupied by men.
Kibowa emphasizes that what matters most is having leaders who understand and support women’s interests.
By Nile Post
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