The race for the Speakership of Parliament continues to attract strong opinions from political leaders across Uganda.
Recently, veteran government communicator Ofwono Opondo weighed in on the debate, offering a candid assessment of the political situation surrounding Norbert Mao.
Speaking during a discussion on NBS Frontline on NBS Television, Opondo said he felt compelled to speak out because of his long-standing friendship with Mao.
He explained that his comments were not meant to attack Mao personally but to caution him about the realities of political competition.
“I saw my friend Mao walking towards a ditch and I don’t want that to happen,” Opondo said during the program. His remarks immediately sparked discussion among political observers and viewers who are closely following the unfolding Speakership race.
Opondo noted that he has known Mao for many years and respects his contribution to Uganda’s political landscape. However, he believes Mao may be approaching the Speakership contest in a way that could weaken his chances.
According to Opondo, the political dynamics within the ruling party require careful navigation. As a founding member of the National Resistance Movement, he said he understands how decisions are made within the party structures.
He emphasized that political ambitions within the NRM system often require patience, strategy, and discretion. In his view, public declarations can sometimes complicate matters rather than help a candidate.
Opondo argued that if Mao truly wanted to pursue the Speakership position, he needed to approach the process more subtly. He suggested that quietly engaging key political actors would have been a more effective strategy.
The government spokesperson said that openly discussing such ambitions in the media could reduce Mao’s chances of gaining support from influential figures within the ruling establishment.
Opondo also pointed out that political negotiations at the highest level often take place behind closed doors. Because of this, he believes public debates can sometimes interfere with sensitive discussions.
Despite his criticism, Opondo stressed that his comments were motivated by concern rather than hostility. He described Mao as a long-time friend whose political career he values.
Over the years, Mao has remained one of the most recognizable political figures in Uganda. As president of the Democratic Party, he has played a significant role in national political debates.
Opondo acknowledged Mao’s experience and intelligence but insisted that the Speakership race requires a different kind of political strategy. In his view, understanding internal power dynamics is crucial for anyone seeking such a powerful position.
The discussion also touched on the broader competition for the Speakership. The current Speaker, Anita Among, remains one of the most influential figures in the race.
Among has built a strong political base in Parliament and within the ruling party. This has made the contest for the Speakership particularly intense.
Political analysts say the position of Speaker is one of the most powerful offices in Uganda’s governance system. The Speaker controls parliamentary proceedings and plays a key role in shaping legislative priorities.
Because of this influence, many political actors are carefully watching how the race unfolds. The outcome could significantly affect the balance of power in the next Parliament.
Opondo’s remarks have therefore added another layer of debate to an already complex political contest. His comments highlight the strategic calculations that often shape leadership battles in Uganda.
Some observers believe his warning reflects the realities of internal political negotiations that are rarely visible to the public.
Others see his remarks as a sign that the Speakership race could become increasingly competitive as different factions position themselves ahead of the next parliamentary term.
As political discussions continue, the race for the Speakership is likely to remain one of the most closely followed issues in Uganda’s political landscape. Leaders, analysts, and citizens alike will be watching carefully to see how events unfold in the coming months.
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