Uganda’s political temperature continues to rise as the race for Speaker of Parliament gathers momentum. State Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development Persis Namuganza has now openly criticized the current Speaker, Anita Annet Among, accusing her of trying to win over independent Members of Parliament through friendly gestures.
Speaking confidently to supporters, Namuganza claimed she personally witnessed Among meeting with independent MPs and attempting to hug and befriend them.
According to her, such gestures will not change the outcome of the Speakership vote. She insisted that independent MPs already know what decision they need to make.
Namuganza suggested that these meetings are part of a wider strategy to secure votes ahead of the highly anticipated election in the 12th Parliament. However, she dismissed the effort as ineffective, arguing that political decisions go beyond public displays of friendliness.
The minister boldly declared that many independent MPs are quietly mobilizing support for her instead. She used the term “kakuyege,” meaning active mobilization, to describe the behind-the-scenes efforts taking place in her favor.
According to Namuganza, she already has the backing of more than 150 Members of Parliament. She expressed strong confidence that this number continues to grow each day as more legislators join her camp.
Her statement has added fresh energy to an already competitive race. The Speakership contest is shaping up to be one of the most intense leadership battles in recent parliamentary history.
While the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) holds the majority in Parliament, the Speaker is elected through a secret ballot. This system allows MPs to vote freely without public pressure, creating room for unexpected outcomes.
Namuganza has framed her campaign as a call for change. She argues that many MPs have closely observed what happened during the 11th Parliament and now desire a different style of leadership.
Without going into deep details, she hinted that dissatisfaction among legislators has fueled her growing support base.
According to her, many MPs believe Parliament needs stronger independence and fairness in its operations.
On the other hand, supporters of Among argue that she has provided stable leadership and continuity. They believe her experience and position within the ruling party give her a strong advantage.
The reported meetings between Among and independent MPs highlight the importance of their votes. Independent legislators often play a crucial role in tight contests because they are not directly bound by party positions.
Namuganza’s comments suggest that political lobbying is happening intensely behind closed doors. Though campaigns for Speakership are not conducted publicly in the traditional sense, consultations and negotiations are common.
Political analysts note that public statements like these are meant to influence perception. By declaring that she has over 150 MPs backing her, Namuganza may be seeking to build momentum and attract undecided members.
The race is not only about numbers but also about influence, loyalty, and trust. Each candidate must convince colleagues that they can manage parliamentary debates, maintain order, and protect the institution’s image.
Observers say the competition reflects deeper debates about accountability and leadership style within Parliament. Some MPs are reportedly weighing their options carefully before committing to either side.
The Speakership is one of the most powerful offices in Uganda’s political system. The Speaker presides over debates, guides legislative processes, and represents Parliament both locally and internationally.
As the 12th Parliament prepares to convene, lobbying efforts are expected to intensify. Meetings, phone calls, and quiet negotiations are likely taking place daily.
Namuganza’s bold criticism of Among signals that the contest will not be a quiet one. Her remarks show determination and confidence as she positions herself as a serious contender.
At the same time, Among’s camp remains optimistic, relying on party endorsement and established alliances. With the secret ballot system, predicting the final outcome remains difficult.
As Uganda watches closely, the Speakership race promises drama, strategy, and political maneuvering. Whether friendly hugs or quiet mobilization will decide the winner remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — the battle for Parliament’s top seat is far from over.
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