Kyankwanzi: Museveni Avoids Taking Firm Position on Speakership Race

Kyankwanzi — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reignited uncertainty in the race for Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, signalling that the ruling National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) earlier Central Executive Committee (CEC) endorsement of Anita Annet Among and Thomas Tayebwa may not be окончательно settled.

Speaking during the ongoing NRM retreat in Kyankwanzi, Museveni struck a cautious tone, indicating that the matter remains open for further internal discussion.

“We shall discuss that at the right time because CEC had recommended that we maintain the two… because it had become a tradition,” Museveni said.

His remarks have since sparked fresh political calculations within the ruling party.

The message was echoed by Beatrice Mao, who underscored the ambiguity, stating: “Key message: we shall discuss at the right time.”

The comments have revived a contest that had appeared settled, giving renewed hope to a number of potential contenders who had been sidelined by the CEC position. Several aspirants and their supporters now see an opportunity for reconsideration, amid growing internal pressure on the NRM leadership to open up the race.

Among those reportedly eyeing the positions are Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao, State Minister for Lands Persis Namuganza, Mbale City Woman MP-elect Lydia Wanyoto, and Aringa South MP Alioni Yorke Odria, among others.

Some voices within the party have criticised what they describe as the “ring-fencing” of top parliamentary positions, arguing that pre-determined endorsements undermine internal democracy.

“You cannot pre-determine leadership in a democratic party without giving others a chance,” one senior NRM figure said privately.

However, supporters of Among and Tayebwa maintain that continuity is both strategic and justified. They argue that the duo played a key role in campaigning for the NRM in the recent elections and should be retained, drawing parallels with former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga and her predecessor Edward Ssekandi, who both served extended terms.

The latest developments highlight a growing contest within the NRM, pitting advocates of continuity against proponents of open competition. With Museveni signalling that consultations are still ongoing, insiders say the race for Speaker remains wide open—and could become one of the most closely watched internal battles ahead of the 12th Parliament.