The newly-elected Speaker of Parliament, Hon Anita Among, has expressed gratitude to all Members of the 11th Parliament for electing her as Speaker, and she promises to work with all parties, including those in opposition.
KAMPALA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Anita Among, the newly-elected Speaker of Parliament, has expressed appreciation for the fact she was elected to the position of Speaker and has assured all sides, including those in opposition, that she will be a Speaker for all.
In a voting exercise held at the Kololo Independence grounds and presided over by Chief Justice Alphonse Owiny-Dollo, Among scooped 401 votes beating Opposition’s Asuman Basalirwa on 66 votes.
Speaking shortly after her memorable victory, Among said it is the greatest honour of her life to become the new Speaker.
She promised to work like her predecessors and steer the House in a manner that will not only satisfy and inspire Ugandans but also bring content to all parties.
“Honourable Colleagues, you have been unanimous in assessing my leadership; I am here, ready to serve you, but I will serve you; as we walk the journey together. A better Uganda is good for everyone, irrespective of your political affiliation. We have reached out to all political parties in Parliament to work for our country. I will be a Speaker for all,” Among said.
“With humility and respect, I would like to say; thank you, Eyalama Noi. Eyalama noi noi. Ours shall be a Parliament where the needs of the common man take center stage in order to achieve the social-economic transformation that the NRM manifesto strives to achieve.”
She, however, re-echoed that just like they have been working with the late Speaker Jacob Oulanyah, the house will continue to be guided and anchored on factual and evidence-based debates.
“Indeed we committed that reason and sound logic shall be used in tabling our positions. This will enable us to derive correct interpretation from agreed facts. I implore everyone to be tolerant and have mutual respect,” Among added.
Meanwhile, she commended President Museveni for the faith and trust extended to her. Among revealed she never imagined the position would come so soon as it has happened.
“I believed that for the next five or ten years, I would have a strong mentor and leader in Jacob Oulanyah to hold my hand. Little did I know that God had a different script.
“Your Excellency and Honourable Colleagues, I am humbled and indeed overjoyed by the faith and trust you have placed in me. I am greatly indebted to you for what I have become today,” Among revealed calling for a moment of silence in memory of the fallen Speaker Jacob Oulanyah.
