In a landmark achievement for Uganda, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, has been elected President of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) Parliamentary Assembly and Co-President of the OACPS-European Union (EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly.
His two-year term marks a significant milestone for Uganda’s growing influence on the global stage.
What Is the OACPS?
The OACPS is a multilateral body comprising 79 member states, united by the goal of achieving sustainable development and integrating its members into the global economy.
The OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly serves as a platform for dialogue and collaboration between the OACPS and the European Union, addressing critical issues such as trade, climate change, and human development.
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A Vote of Confidence in Uganda
Tayebwa’s election is a testament to Uganda’s rising prominence in international diplomacy.
In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to the delegates, calling the victory “a vote of confidence not only in the Parliament of Uganda but in the government and country as a whole.”
He also extended special thanks to Rt. Hon. Speaker Anita Annet Among, who nominated him for the position, and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, whose unwavering support he credited for his success.
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Tayebwa’s Vision and Priorities
As President, Tayebwa outlined an ambitious agenda focused on:
- Implementing the Samoa Agreement: The key legal framework governing OACPS-EU relations.
- Boosting Trade: Eliminating non-tariff barriers to enhance trade between OACPS countries and the EU.
- Strengthening Peace and Security: Promoting stability across member states.
- Promoting Human Development: Advancing equality, social cohesion, and development initiatives.
Tackling Climate Change and Migration: Addressing global challenges through strategic partnerships.
“I promise to raise our flag high,” Tayebwa declared, emphasizing his commitment to advancing Uganda’s interests and fostering collaboration among member states.
High-Level Congratulations
Tayebwa’s election was met with widespread acclaim. Rt. Hon. Anita Among, Uganda’s Speaker of Parliament, described the victory as “a testament to Uganda’s growing influence on the global stage.”
She also thanked President Museveni for his continued support of Ugandan leadership in international institutions.
On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. @Thomas_Tayebwa was elected President of the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS). This multilateral organization comprises 79 countries and Co-Presidents of the OACPS–European Union Joint… pic.twitter.com/5iau4Tyw7x
— Anita Annet Among (@AnitahAmong) February 27, 2025
Jan Sadek, the European Union’s Ambassador to Uganda, also congratulated Tayebwa, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to working closely with him on shared priorities, including trade, climate change, and human development.
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What This Means for Uganda
Tayebwa’s leadership is expected to strengthen Uganda’s role in global diplomacy, enhance trade relations between OACPS countries and the EU, and drive collaborative efforts in areas such as security, development, and environmental sustainability.
As Uganda takes the helm of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly, Tayebwa’s presidency represents a unique opportunity to shape policies that benefit not only Uganda but the entire Global South.
