Uganda’s political atmosphere has intensified after Parliament officially announced May 25, 2026, as the date when Members of Parliament will elect the next Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament.
The highly anticipated exercise is already generating excitement, tension, and behind-the-scenes lobbying as different political camps position themselves for one of the country’s most influential parliamentary contests.
The election will take place shortly after newly elected legislators complete their swearing-in ceremonies, marking the beginning of a fresh parliamentary term.
Political observers believe the Speakership race could significantly shape the balance of power within both Parliament and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Current Speaker Anita Annet Among remains one of the central figures in the unfolding contest. The Bukedea Woman MP has maintained a strong grip on parliamentary leadership over the past years and is widely seen as a powerful contender seeking to retain her seat despite growing political pressure and internal rivalries.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, the Ruhinda North legislator from Mitooma District, also remains in office as speculation continues about whether he will retain his position in the next Parliament. Tayebwa has built considerable political influence within Parliament and among sections of the ruling party.
However, uncertainty continues to dominate the race because President Yoweri Museveni and the ruling NRM Central Executive Committee have not yet formally endorsed candidates for either the Speaker or Deputy Speaker positions. This lack of official direction has opened the door for intense lobbying and strategic maneuvering among aspirants.
The absence of clear endorsements has also fueled widespread speculation within political circles about possible changes in leadership. Analysts say the silence from the top leadership has created an unpredictable environment where alliances are shifting rapidly behind closed doors.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao has emerged as one of the most talked-about contenders in the Speakership race. Mao, who recently secured victory as MP-elect for Laroo-Pece Division in Gulu City, is reportedly attracting attention from different political actors seeking an alternative leadership figure.
Mao’s possible entry into the contest has added a new layer of intrigue because of his unique political background and his cooperation agreement with the ruling government despite leading the Democratic Party. Some analysts believe his candidacy could reshape alliances within Parliament.
Another notable contender is Persis Namuganza, the MP-elect for Bukono County in Namutumba District. Known for her outspoken personality and confrontational political style, Namuganza has often remained at the center of controversial national debates and could bring a highly competitive edge to the race.
Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, the Woman MP-elect for Mbale City, has also emerged as a candidate attracting growing attention. Wanyoto is widely recognized for her experience in regional politics and diplomacy, making her another influential figure capable of attracting support from different camps.
The growing list of contenders has transformed the Speakership contest into one of the most closely watched political battles in recent years. Political observers believe the election could expose deeper divisions and alliances within the ruling party and Parliament as a whole.
Across political corridors, lobbying activities have reportedly intensified, with candidates and their supporters quietly engaging newly elected legislators in efforts to secure support before voting day. Meetings, consultations, and strategy discussions are said to be happening almost daily.
The contest is also drawing major public attention because the Speaker of Parliament holds enormous influence over legislative business, parliamentary appointments, national debate, and oversight of government activities. The office is regarded as one of the most powerful political positions in Uganda.
Some analysts believe the election could serve as an early indicator of shifting political dynamics ahead of the 2026 presidential and broader national political processes. The outcome may reveal which factions currently command influence within the ruling establishment.
At the same time, opposition legislators are expected to play a strategic role in the voting process, especially if divisions within the ruling party deepen. In previous parliamentary elections, cross-party alliances have occasionally influenced leadership outcomes.
Public interest in the race has also been amplified by ongoing controversies involving some of the key figures linked to the contest. Allegations, political attacks, and public disagreements among influential politicians have already begun shaping public perceptions ahead of the vote.
Observers say Anita Among enters the race with the advantage of incumbency and a strong network within Parliament. However, growing criticism and internal political battles could present significant challenges to her bid for another term as Speaker.
Meanwhile, supporters of other contenders argue that the upcoming Parliament requires fresh leadership capable of navigating increasing political pressure, economic challenges, and heightened public expectations from lawmakers.
As May 25 approaches, attention is expected to focus heavily on President Museveni and the NRM Central Executive Committee to see whether they will eventually endorse candidates or allow the race to remain fully competitive among legislators.
For now, Uganda’s political scene remains gripped by anticipation as MPs prepare for a dramatic contest that could redefine parliamentary leadership and influence the direction of national politics over the next five years.
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