Karamoja, Teso Parliamentary losers to back Mao for speakership

Teso/Karamoja – Several parliamentary candidates who lost in the just concluded elections across Teso and Karamoja have started holding meetings with those who were elected to ensure that they vote for DP Party Chairman Mr. Norbert Mao for the speakership of the 12th Parliament.

In secret meetings so far held in Soroti, Pallisa and Karamoja, and attended by some NRM party chairpersons, the move is aimed at mobilising support for Norbert Mao.

One NRM chairperson from Teso was heard communicating to newly elected MPs to accept money in case it comes from the current Speaker’s office but vote for Mr. Mao instead.

“Look at the confusion we have right now in Teso; 99 per cent originates from the Speaker of Parliament’s office, so we should cause change,” the party chairperson was heard saying from the hotel corridor where they had a meeting.

Another loser from Karamoja also registered concerns over confusion caused by a few MPs purportedly working in the Speaker’s office who disorganised the will of the people.

After the sitting of the third meeting in Pallisa, attended by over 20 aspiring candidates, NRM flag bearers, independents and opposition candidates who had contested for parliamentary seats in Serere County, Kasilo County, Pingire County, Soroti County, Kalaki District, Katakwi, Kaberamaido, Kumi, Ngora and Bukedea came together and vowed to use their connections to generate support for Mao.

Statements from most of the losers, who did not want their names revealed, claim their failure was caused by the office of the Speaker, which allegedly dished out money to influence their defeat, a claim this publication could not independently verify.

It should be noted that the newly elected Member of Parliament for Laro Pece, Mr. Norbert Mao, has expressed his interest in the speakership position, something that has caused unease among the incumbents.

Meanwhile, Ms. Lydia Wanyoto, the newly elected Woman Member of Parliament for Mbale, has also expressed her intention to contest for the same seat.