Politics 11 March 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
NRM Faces Internal Pushback in Heated Speaker Race for 12th Parliament
Dissent is simmering within Uganda's ruling NRM party over the Central Executive Committee's endorsement of Anita Among as Speaker and Thomas Tayebwa as Deputy Speaker for the incoming 12th Parliament. Challengers like Norbert Mao and several MPs are stepping up, despite party efforts to maintain unity amid international sanctions on Among. Source: https://observer.ug/news/dissent-brews-inside-nrm-as-speakership-race-heats-up
The race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament is stirring unusual tension inside the National Resistance Movement (NRM). Typically, the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) decides these roles well in advance, but this time, quiet opposition has emerged.
Following President Yoweri Museveni’s victory declaration in the January 2026 election, the CEC endorsed Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Thomas Tayebwa. NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong confirmed Museveni’s approval, aiming to present them to the parliamentary caucus for adoption and avoid internal divisions. Interested members have been urged to step aside.
Despite this, challengers are pushing forward. They include NRM’s Persis Namuganza, Democratic Party’s Norbert Mao, Alion Yorke Odria, Lydia Wanyoto, and Florence Asiimwe Akiiki. Mao cited the ‘accidental’ rise of Among after Jacob Oulanyah’s 2022 death as reason for a fresh contest.
Among remains defiant, brushing off critics at a January 27 Iftar dinner and highlighting achievements like the Anti-Homosexuality Act. She called for unity during Ramadan and Lent.
International sanctions complicate matters. The US, UK, and UAE targeted Among in 2024 over corruption and rights issues, limiting her travel and finances. This has sidelined her from events like the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference. Some envoys suggest alternatives, but Museveni’s backing signals her continued alignment with NRM interests.
Regional support bolsters Among, with endorsements from MPs like Shafiga Wanyenya and others. Tayebwa expressed certainty that NRM will secure the posts, dismissing opposition bids as unrealistic.
Critics like Godber Tumushabe argue Parliament’s deeper corruption issues overshadow the leadership fight, predicting Museveni’s endorsement will decide the outcome.
This race tests NRM unity and parliamentary autonomy as the 12th session approaches.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)