President Yoweri Museveni will deliver his State of the Nation Address today at 2pm from Kololo Independence Grounds.
The speech marks the official start of work for the 12th Parliament, which is holding its 3rd sitting of the current session.
Under Article 101(1) of Uganda’s Constitution, the President must address Parliament at the beginning of every session to update the country on the state of the nation.
The law also allows him to speak to Parliament from time to time, in consultation with the Speaker, on matters of national importance.
Today’s address is significant because Museveni will formally open a new legislative cycle. This is the first State of the Nation under the new Speaker Jacob Oboth-Oboth, deputised by Thomas Tayebwa.
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What Museveni is likely to focus on
Museveni has used this platform before to speak on corruption, the economy, security, and social welfare. This time he is expected to tell the newly elected MPs his priorities for the term he calls “Kisanja No More Sleep.”
He already warned NRM MPs against corruption, and he is expected to repeat that warning to the full House today.
Another key point is Parliament’s leadership change. He is likely to acknowledge the exit of former Speaker Annet Among and the new team under Oboth-Oboth and Tayebwa.
However, he is not expected to give details on the ongoing probe into the 11th Parliament Speaker.
In short, expect a roadmap of his government’s priorities, a strong anti-corruption message, and updates on security and the economy as he sets the tone for the next five years.
