By Hannah Marion Namukasa
The Uganda National Women’s Council has said the ongoing race for Speaker of Parliament should not be reduced to a question of gender, insisting that the priority is securing leaders who will advance women’s interests regardless of whether they are male or female.
The Council’s position comes amid growing debate following the withdrawal of former Speaker Anita Among from the contest and the endorsement of Jacob Oboth-Oboth for Speaker alongside Thomas Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker. The endorsements have effectively diminished the prospects of a woman occupying Parliament’s two most senior leadership positions.
Addressing reporters at the Council headquarters in Ntinda, Chairperson Hajjat Faridah Kibowa said Ugandan women have already made historic strides in political leadership over the years, particularly under the NRM administration.
“For nearly two decades, women have served in those top parliamentary offices, first as Deputy Speaker and later as Speaker. That was part of the struggle for inclusion, and we are proud that it was achieved,” Kibowa said.
She noted that women should not interpret the latest political developments as a setback or exclusion from national leadership.
“We should not lose hope simply because the positions may now go to men. Women have already demonstrated their leadership ability, and that progress cannot be erased,” she said.
Kibowa emphasized that what matters most is electing leaders who are committed to protecting and promoting women’s rights and opportunities.
She also raised concern about what she described as the tendency to judge all women leaders based on the actions of a single individual.
“In many cases, when one woman faces criticism, society extends that judgment to all women. That is unfair and should stop,” she remarked.
The Women’s Council chairperson further urged female leaders to exercise responsibility and integrity whenever entrusted with public office, saying their conduct has an impact on future opportunities for other women.
“Women in leadership should remember they carry the expectations of many others who look up to them,” she said.
Commenting on the ongoing scrutiny surrounding former Speaker Anita Among, Kibowa appealed for calm and urged the public to allow investigations and legal processes to proceed without interference.
With elections for Speaker and Deputy Speaker drawing closer, the Women’s Council says its focus remains on leadership that can effectively champion women’s empowerment and representation, rather than on the gender of those occupying the offices.
