Ugandan blogger and political commentator Frank Mwesigye has publicly endorsed Norbert Mao in the growing contest for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, saying the country needs patriotic and reform-minded leadership instead of what he described as “money politics.”
Mwesigye’s endorsement comes at a time when political competition surrounding the Speakership race is intensifying, with different camps mobilizing support both inside Parliament and across social media platforms ahead of the formation of the new House.
The race is expected to feature incumbent Speaker Anita Annet Among, Justice Minister Norbert Mao, and former minister Persis Namuganza among other possible contenders.
In comments shared online, Frank Mwesigye dismissed allegations that support for Norbert Mao is being driven by financial incentives or political handouts. Instead, he argued that Mao’s supporters are motivated by patriotism and concern for Uganda’s future.
“All those who support Norbert Mao are driven by patriotism and Nyekundiire. We are not motivated by money like those who support AAA,” Mwesigye stated in a social media post that has since attracted significant public attention.
He went further and claimed that even if Mao attempted to give money to his supporters, they would reject it because they believe in his message of fighting corruption and improving governance standards in Uganda.
“In fact, if Mao were to offer us money, we would refuse it. We admire him for his love for the country and for being an anti-corruption crusader,” he added.
The remarks have added fresh political heat to an already tense Speakership race that continues to dominate political discussions both online and offline.
Supporters from different camps have increasingly used social media platforms to shape narratives around leadership credibility, corruption, accountability, and the future direction of Parliament.
Norbert Mao, who currently serves as Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, has recently positioned himself as a reform-oriented figure calling for greater accountability and institutional integrity within Parliament.
His recent criticism of corruption, parliamentary spending, and governance practices has attracted praise from some Ugandans who believe Parliament requires stronger oversight and reforms.
However, Mao’s critics argue that his recent anti-corruption messaging contradicts some of his earlier public remarks in which he defended Speaker Anita Among against corruption allegations.
Despite the criticism, Mao’s supporters insist that he represents a fresh alternative capable of restoring public trust in Parliament and promoting responsible leadership.
Meanwhile, Anita Among’s supporters continue to defend her leadership record since becoming Speaker in March 2022 following the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah.
Her allies point to her role in managing parliamentary business, supporting government programs, and strengthening legislative activities during her tenure.
Critics, however, continue raising concerns regarding parliamentary expenditures, governance standards, and allegations of political influence within the institution.
Political analysts say the growing debate surrounding the Speakership reflects wider frustrations among sections of the public over corruption, public spending, and accountability in national institutions.
The contest also follows recent internal discussions within the ruling National Resistance Movement where President Yoweri Museveni reportedly signaled support for continuity before later indicating that all aspirants would be vetted by the party’s Central Executive Committee.
That development opened the door for additional political actors to publicly express interest in the influential parliamentary position.
Observers say bloggers, influencers, and political mobilizers are now playing an increasingly important role in shaping public opinion ahead of major political contests in Uganda.
Frank Mwesigye’s endorsement of Mao is therefore being viewed not simply as an individual opinion, but as part of a broader political messaging campaign aimed at influencing perceptions about integrity, leadership, and the future of Parliament.
As the Speakership race continues gaining momentum, Ugandans are expected to witness even more public endorsements, political attacks, and ideological debates as different camps battle for influence ahead of the official election of parliamentary leaders in the 12th Parliament.
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