KAMPALA, June 23, 2026 — Members of Parliament have been urged to rise above partisan interests and legislate in the interest of the electorate, with a stronger focus on issues that unite the country and advance national development.
Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu, the Titular Head of Muslims in Uganda, said Uganda possesses several sectors capable of fostering national unity, including education, healthcare and economic development, and cautioned legislators against becoming consumed by political divisions.
“There is no reason why we should waste our energies on those trivialities; rather, let us utilise our energies for the good of our people. When you perform well, you take the credit. Therefore, strive to deliver so that everybody believes in your capacity,” he said.
Prince Nakibinge made the remarks while hosting members of the Muslim Parliamentary Caucus to a luncheon at his residence in Kibuli on Friday, following Juma prayers at Kibuli Mosque.
The chief guest, former Prime Minister John Patrick Amama Mbabazi, echoed the call for greater political unity within Parliament, emphasising that national interests and the welfare of Ugandans must take precedence over partisan considerations.
“Uganda’s transformation requires unity of purpose. Listen to one another, respect differing viewpoints, seek common ground and present a united front on issues of development, poverty eradication, education, youth empowerment and ethical governance,” Mbabazi said.
“Political competition should never prevent collaboration in areas where the future of our country is at stake,” he added.
Mbabazi also urged legislators to play a central role in guiding Uganda’s transition into a petroleum-producing economy, ensuring that oil revenues become a foundation for sustainable and intergenerational wealth rather than short-term consumption.
He noted that estimates suggest Uganda’s petroleum resources could sustain production for approximately 25 to 30 years — a relatively short period in the life of a nation.
“Oil is finite; therefore, it must be viewed as a springboard, not a destination. The revenues generated from petroleum should be invested strategically to promote both vertical and horizontal integration across the economy,” he said.
“They should strengthen sectors that will continue to create wealth long after the last barrel of oil has been extracted.”
Mbabazi identified agriculture and agro-processing, science and technology, energy generation, manufacturing, transport infrastructure, education and skills development as priority areas for investment.
“Prioritising these sectors can build an independent, integrated and self-sustaining economy that can thrive for generations beyond the lifespan of our oil reserves. You are custodians of an exhaustible national asset whose benefits must extend far beyond the present generation,” he added.
The Chairperson of the Muslim Parliamentary Caucus, Hassan Kirumira, pledged Parliament’s continued commitment to advancing the welfare and interests of the Muslim community in Uganda.
https://thecooperator.news/184-mps-sworn-in-as-12th-parliament-takes-shape/
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