Uganda’s political scene has taken a dramatic twist after Norbert Mao officially announced that he will contest for the position of Speaker of Parliament. His bold declaration has added new excitement and tension to the race for leadership in the country’s upcoming 12th Parliament.
Many political observers say this could become one of the most competitive Speakership contests in recent years.
Mao made his announcement during a press conference held at the Democratic Party headquarters in Kampala. The event was well attended by party members, journalists, and supporters who were eager to hear his next move.
Standing confidently before the cameras, he confirmed that he was ready to challenge the current Speaker for the powerful position.
Mao currently serves as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and is also the President General of the Democratic Party (DP). His decision to enter the race signals that he believes Parliament needs fresh leadership and stronger independence from the Executive arm of government.
He emphasized that this decision came after wide consultations with Members of Parliament and other key stakeholders.
In his speech, Mao explained that the office of the Speaker belongs to Parliament as an institution, not to any single political party. He reminded Ugandans that any elected Member of Parliament qualifies to contest for the position.
According to him, leadership of Parliament should be based on ability, integrity, and vision rather than party dominance.
Mao was recently elected as Member of Parliament for Laroo-Pece Division in Gulu District. This victory gave him the legal qualification required to run for Speaker. He compared the situation to a religious conclave where every cardinal is qualified to become Pope, stressing that eligibility is open to all MPs.
His announcement directly challenges the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), which had already endorsed the current Speaker, Anita Annet Among, for re-election. The NRM’s endorsement was made during a Central Executive Committee meeting chaired by President Yoweri Museveni at State House in Entebbe.
The ruling party has a large majority in Parliament, which gives Among a strong advantage. However, the election of the Speaker is conducted through a secret ballot. This means that Members of Parliament can vote freely without public pressure, creating room for unexpected results.
Mao has described corruption as Uganda’s biggest problem. He said corruption has grown deeply rooted in institutions and involves large sums of money that weaken public services. He believes Parliament must take a stronger stand to restore accountability and rebuild public trust.
If elected Speaker, Mao has promised to promote transparency and strengthen parliamentary oversight. He says Parliament must work independently and maintain dignity and discipline in its proceedings. According to him, strong institutions are the backbone of democracy.
Mao has previously referred to Among as an “accidental Speaker,” noting that she took office after the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah in 2022. Mao argues that this time Parliament should make a deliberate and thoughtful choice about its leadership.
Despite his strong message, Mao urged his supporters not to openly campaign for him. He reminded them that parliamentary rules do not allow open campaigning for the Speakership. He added that candidates do not even speak during the election process itself.
Other politicians have also shown interest in the Speakership race. Among them is Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, the Woman MP for Mbale City, and Persis Namuganza, the State Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development. Their involvement makes the contest even more competitive.
Political analysts believe that Mao’s entry into the race highlights a deeper debate about parliamentary independence. Many citizens have questioned whether Parliament should operate more independently from the Executive branch of government. Mao’s campaign appears to focus heavily on this issue.
Supporters of Among argue that she has provided steady leadership and continuity since taking office. They believe her re-election would ensure stability in the 12th Parliament. The NRM’s early endorsement was meant to send a message of unity and confidence in her leadership.
However, critics say that continuity should not prevent healthy competition. They argue that leadership positions must remain open to challenge in a democratic system. Mao’s candidacy therefore introduces a new level of accountability and competition.
The upcoming 12th Parliament is expected to convene in May 2026. The election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker will take place during its first sitting. This moment will officially determine who will guide parliamentary debates and decisions for the next term.
Behind the scenes, lobbying and consultations are already intensifying. MPs are quietly weighing their options and considering which candidate best represents their interests and vision for the country. The secret ballot adds suspense to the entire process.
Mao’s political experience gives him credibility among some lawmakers. He has served in various leadership roles and is known for his strong public speaking skills. His message of reform and accountability may resonate with MPs who desire change.
At the same time, Among’s supporters believe her strong ties within the ruling party give her an unbeatable edge. The NRM’s numerical strength cannot be ignored. Yet history has shown that secret ballots sometimes produce surprising outcomes.
As Uganda prepares for this important vote, the Speakership race promises drama, strategy, and intense political negotiation. Whether this contest ends in continuity or change, Mao’s bold move has already ensured that the race will be closely watched across the country.
About the Author
