Parliament approves HE Jessica Alupo as Vice President for second term

By Our Reporter 

 

Parliament has approved the appointment of Vice President Jessica Alupo for another term, paving the way for her continuation in one of the country’s highest offices after securing the required simple majority vote in the House.

The approval was made in line with Article 108(2) of the Constitution, which requires Parliament to vet and approve the President’s nominee for Vice President before assuming office.

Alupo, who first became Vice President in June 2021, served in the position until May 2026 under President Yoweri Museveni’s administration. Her reappointment signals continuity within the Executive as the new government settles into office following the recent political transition.

During the parliamentary sitting, Members of Parliament endorsed her appointment without major resistance, citing her long experience in public service and government administration.

Alupo has had a lengthy political career spanning more than a decade in Cabinet and Parliament. Before becoming Vice President, she served as Minister of Education and Sports from 2011 to 2016, where she oversaw policy implementation in the education sector during a period marked by curriculum and institutional reforms.

Prior to that, she served as State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs from 2009 to 2011, a role that elevated her profile within government and national politics.

A former soldier and seasoned politician, Alupo previously represented Katakwi District in Parliament and has remained one of the most prominent female leaders in Uganda’s political landscape. Over the years, she has built a reputation as a disciplined public administrator and loyal member of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Her return to the vice presidency comes at a time when the government is expected to focus on economic recovery, service delivery, infrastructure development and youth employment, issues that dominated public debate during the recent electoral period.

Political observers say her continued stay in office reflects President Museveni’s confidence in her leadership and administrative experience, particularly within Cabinet and Parliament.

The Vice President plays a key constitutional role in assisting the President in the discharge of executive functions and representing the Head of State at official functions when delegated.

With Parliament’s approval now secured, Alupo is expected to formally continue her duties as Vice President as the government finalises appointments and transitions into the new term of office.

Her approval was among a series of executive appointments considered by the House as the 12th Parliament continues its early sittings.