Fresh political debate has emerged after Ofwono Opondo dismissed growing excitement surrounding endorsements in the race for Speaker of Parliament, insisting that only the ruling National Resistance Movement has the authority to determine who will lead the 12th Parliament.
Speaking shortly after being sworn in as Member of Parliament representing the elderly in Eastern Uganda, Opondo urged Ugandans to remain calm and avoid rushing into conclusions based on endorsements from political groups and formations.
“Don’t be excited for another week,” Opondo told journalists at Parliament in remarks that immediately attracted national attention. According to him, the final decision on the Speakership lies entirely within the structures of the NRM and not external political camps.
His comments appeared to directly address recent endorsements of Oboth Oboth by Muhoozi Kainerugaba and several legislators linked to the Patriotic League of Uganda.
Over the past few days, Uganda’s political atmosphere has become increasingly tense following Muhoozi’s strong public support for Oboth-Oboth as the next Speaker of Parliament. The endorsement triggered excitement among supporters and intensified speculation about possible leadership changes in Parliament.
However, Opondo appeared determined to downplay the influence of those endorsements. He stressed that despite public declarations and political excitement, the Speakership remains an internal NRM matter that will ultimately be resolved through party structures and consultations.
“The next Speaker will come from the NRM and not any other political party,” Opondo emphasized, signaling confidence that the ruling party still fully controls the process despite growing pressure from different political actors.
Political observers say Opondo’s remarks reflect concerns within sections of the NRM about the growing influence of political formations operating alongside the ruling establishment while attempting to shape national political discussions.
Some analysts believe his comments were also intended to remind Ugandans that while endorsements from influential personalities may attract headlines, the final decision-making power still rests with the party leadership and official parliamentary processes.
The remarks come amid growing reports of divisions and shifting alliances within political circles ahead of the election of parliamentary leaders in the newly sworn-in 12th Parliament.
At the center of the political storm remains current Speaker Anita Among, who continues to face increasing scrutiny following reports that sections of the political establishment may be considering alternative leadership options.
Despite the ongoing speculation, Among’s supporters insist she remains politically strong and capable of retaining the Speakership position despite endorsements directed toward rival figures.
Meanwhile, Opondo also used the opportunity to outline some of the issues he intends to champion as representative of the elderly in Eastern Uganda, placing healthcare access at the top of his agenda.
He expressed concern about the growing burden of diseases affecting elderly Ugandans, particularly diabetes, high blood pressure, prostate complications, and arthritis, which he said continue to strain many families financially.
According to Opondo, government-supported medical insurance for older persons could significantly improve healthcare access and reduce suffering among vulnerable senior citizens across the country.
He argued that preventive healthcare should become a major national priority, especially for elderly populations who often struggle to access specialized treatment and regular medical examinations.
Referring to data from Uganda’s 2014 census, Opondo noted that citizens aged 60 years and above make up a relatively manageable portion of the population, meaning government intervention would be financially possible if properly planned.
“My proposal is to first have annual medical examinations because, if you know what you have, then you can avoid certain things,” he explained while emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and preventive healthcare.
Opondo further pointed out that government already provides support for maternal healthcare and immunisation programs for children, arguing that similar support should also be extended to elderly citizens facing chronic illnesses.
Beyond the Speakership debate, his comments highlighted a broader concern about social protection and healthcare support for Uganda’s ageing population, an issue that often receives limited national attention despite increasing health challenges among senior citizens.
For now, however, it is Opondo’s political warning about the Speakership race that continues to dominate national conversation. As endorsements, alliances, and internal consultations intensify, Uganda’s political landscape appears headed toward one of the most closely watched parliamentary leadership battles in recent years.
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