Uganda’s political scene has once again been stirred after strong remarks from Norbert Mao regarding the leadership of Parliament.
Mao described the current Speaker as an “accidental Speaker” following the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah. His statement has sparked debate across the country.
Speaking to the media, Mao said that after Oulanyah’s passing, Uganda found itself with a Speaker who rose to the position due to unexpected circumstances.
At the time of Oulanyah’s death, Anita Among was serving as Deputy Speaker. She later contested for the top parliamentary seat and won.
Mao’s remarks were made as he officially declared his bid to become Speaker of the 12th Parliament. His announcement immediately caught public attention, especially because of his strong choice of words.
According to Mao, Uganda is going through a very sensitive and important period. He believes that Parliament needs steady, experienced, and trusted leadership to guide the country through the next five years.
He argued that the Speakership is not just a ceremonial role but one that carries great responsibility.
The Speaker, he said, must protect the integrity of Parliament, ensure fairness in debates, and defend the rights of both majority and minority members.
Mao suggested that the circumstances under which Anita Among became Speaker have shaped the current state of Parliament.
By using the word “accidental,” he implied that her leadership was the result of an unexpected event rather than a long-planned political transition.
The death of Jacob Oulanyah in 2022 was a painful moment for Uganda. He was widely respected across political divides, and his passing created a sudden leadership gap in Parliament.
Mao spoke emotionally about Oulanyah, describing him as a close friend. He even shared personal reflections, saying he sometimes wonders what Oulanyah would say to him if they met again in the afterlife.
In a deeply personal statement, Mao said he feels a sense of responsibility to act. He suggested that remaining silent about what he sees as problems in Parliament would be like failing his late friend.
Currently serving as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and president general of the Democratic Party, Mao highlighted his long political journey. He pointed out that he has worked both in opposition and in government.
He believes this broad experience makes him well suited to lead a diverse and sometimes divided Parliament. According to him, his record shows that he can work with people from different political backgrounds.
Mao defended his history of cooperation across party lines. He said collaboration should not be seen as weakness but as a sign of maturity and leadership.
He also mentioned that his decision to run for Speaker came after wide consultations. He said he spoke with religious leaders, civil society members, political actors, and ordinary citizens across the country.
Many of those he consulted, he claimed, encouraged him to stand for the position. They believe he could bring balance and restore public trust in Parliament.
Uganda, Mao argued, is facing economic challenges, governance concerns, and growing public frustration. In such times, Parliament must act as a stabilizing force.
He emphasized that the Speaker must enforce rules fairly and ensure meaningful oversight of the Executive branch. Without strong leadership, he warned, institutions risk losing credibility.
Mao’s declaration is expected to heat up the race for the Speakership of the 12th Parliament. Political groups are already organizing and positioning themselves ahead of the contest.
His comments about an “accidental Speaker” are likely to draw strong reactions from supporters of Anita Among. Some may see his words as criticism, while others may view them as part of normal political competition.
As Uganda prepares for the next parliamentary term, the debate over leadership style, experience, and vision is becoming more intense. The coming months will reveal whether Mao’s message resonates widely enough to reshape the leadership of Parliament.
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