NUP Reappoints Joel Ssenyonyi as Leader of Opposition in Parliament

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has reappointed Nakawa West Member of Parliament Joel Ssenyonyi as the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.

Ssenyonyi will continue serving in the role for another two and a half years as the opposition seeks to strengthen its presence in Parliament ahead of the next general election cycle.

The party also appointed Manjiya County MP John Baptist Nambeshe as a Parliamentary Commissioner.

Jinja South East MP Paul Mwiru, who previously contested for the position of Speaker of Parliament but lost, has been named the Opposition Chief Whip.

The office of the Leader of the Opposition is officially recognized under Uganda’s parliamentary system and is funded by the government through the Administration of Parliament Act.

While serving in the position, the Leader of the Opposition is entitled to official transport, security personnel, office space and staff support. These privileges only apply during the period of service.

Ministerial benefits operate in a similar way because they are tied to constitutional appointments to Cabinet and end once a minister leaves office.

During the 11th Parliament, Ssenyonyi became known as one of the most vocal critics of government expenditure, corruption and the misuse of public funds, earning praise from opposition supporters for his oversight role.