State House Entebbe was a hive of activity on Monday as 76 ministers took the oath of office before President Yoweri Museveni, officially beginning their duties in the new government.The colourful ceremony attracted senior government officials, Members of Parliament, diplomats, security chiefs and family members of the newly appointed ministers.
The swearing-in exercise was coordinated by Lucy Nakyobe Mbonye, the Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, who guided ministers through the official procedures before they signed government documents.One after another, ministers stepped forward to take the oath of allegiance and the oath of office, pledging to uphold the Constitution and serve the people of Uganda faithfully.
BIG NAMES TAKE OATH
Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo was among the first senior leaders to take the oath and officially begin another term in office.Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja also took the oath before President Museveni, followed by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs Rebecca Kadaga.
Dr. Crispus Walter Kiyonga was sworn in as Second Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader of Government Business in Parliament.Several senior ministers also took the oath, including Kiryowa Kiwanuka as Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Norbert Mao as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng as Government Chief Whip.
Others sworn in included Frank Tumwebaze as Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hillary Onek as Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister in charge of General Duties, Sam Engola as Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, and Judith Nabakooba as Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development.Businessman and legislator Sanjay Tanna officially joined Cabinet after being sworn in as Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives.
Jim Muhwezi took oath as Minister in the Office of the President in charge of Security while Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi was sworn in as Minister for Local Government.Hajjat Minsa Kabanda assumed office as Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs. Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde returned to Cabinet after taking oath as Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development.Engineer Jonard Assimwe was sworn in as Minister in charge of Science, Technology and Innovation while Justine Kasule Lumumba took oath as Minister for ICT and National Guidance.
Dr. Chris Baryomunsi also took oath and officially assumed duties as Minister of Health.
MUSEVENI DEMANDS HARD WORK
Addressing the newly sworn-in ministers, President Museveni said the new Cabinet had a responsibility to ensure that government programmes benefited ordinary Ugandans.He said ministers should focus on service delivery, wealth creation and fighting corruption.
Museveni said Ugandans expected results from their leaders and urged ministers to closely monitor government projects. He noted that public resources should be used responsibly and warned against wastefulness.
The President further said government would continue implementing programmes aimed at transforming the country’s economy and improving household incomes.Political observers said the President’s message showed that he expected strict accountability from members of his new Cabinet.
FOUR MINISTERS MISS CEREMONY
Despite the successful ceremony, four ministerial appointees did not take the oath. Lucy Nakyobe told guests that 78 Cabinet members were available and ready to take oath while one minister was indisposed.She explained that four other ministers had been engaged by her office and the Solicitor General over issues relating to their status and that a report had been submitted to the President for guidance.
Her remarks immediately sparked discussion among guests and political observers about the future of the affected ministers.Government officials, however, maintained that all legal procedures were being followed before any final decisions were made.
NAKYOBE PRAISED FOR SMOOTH ORGANISATION
Many guests praised Lucy Nakyobe for ensuring that the swearing-in ceremony proceeded smoothly. Throughout the event, she coordinated protocol teams, directed ministers and supervised all official documentation.
Several officials described her as the key figure behind the successful organisation of one of the most important government functions of the year. Her calm handling of the ceremony earned admiration from many attendees.
FAMILIES CELEBRATE
The occasion was also a proud moment for families of the newly sworn-in ministers. Relatives and supporters were seen taking photographs and congratulating their loved ones after the ceremony. For first-time ministers such as Jonard Assimwe and Sanjay Tanna, the day marked a major milestone in their political careers.Many ministers spent time celebrating with family members shortly after completing the oath-taking exercise.
As the ceremony came to an end, Uganda’s new Cabinet officially began work amid growing expectations from citizens who want improved service delivery, better healthcare, more jobs and accelerated economic development.With President Museveni already demanding performance and accountability, attention now turns to whether the newly sworn-in ministers will deliver on the promises made to Ugandans.
Author Profile
- Charles Gazza Kodili is a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience in the media industry. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication. He’s currently the Chief Editor at the Investigator.
Charles can also be reached via; Tel: +256 774 108978
Email: [email protected]
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