Politics 14 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda's Speaker Race: Museveni's Pick Likely to Prevail Amid Contenders
The contest for Uganda's next Speaker of Parliament features key candidates including incumbent Anita Among, Norbert Mao, Percis Namuganza, and Lydia Wanyoto, with President Museveni's influence expected to determine the winner. Among's strength and loyalty make her the frontrunner despite past sanctions and calls for her removal. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/who-is-museveni-s-choice-for-speaker--5390516
The race for Speaker of Uganda’s Parliament has heated up, spotlighting power dynamics within the ruling NRM party. Contenders include incumbent Anita Among, Norbert Mao, Percis Namuganza, and Lydia Wanyoto.
President Yoweri Museveni holds decisive sway, as his preferred candidate is widely expected to secure the position. He prioritizes a Speaker who remains pliant and aligned with his agenda.
Despite UK sanctions on Among prompting impeachment calls, Museveni opted to retain her, viewing her as a stable asset amid other political transitions, like appointing his son as Chief of Defence Forces. Her robust influence and patronage ties within NRM bolster her bid over alternatives like Mao.
Speculation once suggested Mao for Speaker or Among for Vice President, with Thomas Tayebwa potentially stepping up. However, Among’s determination to retain the role positions her strongly, provided she maintains Museveni’s support.
Other aspirants, including Namuganza and Wanyoto, push for reform, citing needs for decorum and regional representation, but Museveni’s endorsement will likely tip the scales.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)