Uganda’s Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has been elected as a member of the bureau to represent East Africa at the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) – European Union General Assembly.
Tayebwa’s election took place during the 64th session of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly and Constitutive Sessions of the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assemblies, held in Luanda, Angola, from 17th to 21st.
He will represent Mauritius, Seychelles, Djibouti, Comoros, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi.
Among his priorities, Tayebwa emphasized focusing on the implementation of the Samoa Agreement, which has replaced the Cotonou Agreement after over 20 years of operation.
“We will engage vigorously with the European Union coalition to address climate change, gender parity, energy transition, human rights, Peace and Conflict Resolution, and democracy, which are fundamental aspects of the international framework,” he stated.
Tayebwa pledged to be a voice for the Global South, particularly addressing unfair trade practices and restrictions imposed by the European Union.
“We will dialogue with the EU regarding energy issues and renewable energy. It is imperative to utilize our resources without harming the environment. Additionally, Africa, contributing only 3% of global emissions, cannot bear the brunt of energy transition penalties,” he added.
“We, as five African members, will negotiate with the European Parliament on these matters. I believe that with a pan-Africanist perspective, we can effectively engage the European Parliament and achieve significant progress,” he further commented.
Martin Peters Owino, a Kenyan MP, expressed confidence in Tayebwa’s ability to represent the East African region effectively.
“He will lead the East Africa regional section, enhancing our collective strength. We expect him to foster effective communication among us to articulate our concerns before the sessions. This proactive approach will enable us to address issues comprehensively,” Owino remarked.
Opposition Chief in the Ugandan Parliament, John Baptist Nambeshe, highlighted the significant opportunities Tayebwa’s election brings for Uganda and the region.
“Our region faces unique challenges that require assertive negotiators like Honorable Thomas Tayebwa to promote unity. Although there are attempts to divide Africa into separate categories, with the inclusion of formidable leaders like Tayebwa, we can work towards unity,” Nambeshe emphasized.
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