Politics 28 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Warning: Second NRM Revolution Looms with CDF's Rise
Justice Minister Norbert Mao's political ambitions may be a mere pawn in a larger scheme leading to a second NRM revolution, potentially elevating the Chief of Defence Forces to the nation's top position. The commentary draws parallels to Marxist tactics and the Greek myth of Icarus to caution against hubris in Uganda's elite-driven power transitions. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/beware-a-second-nrm-revolution-is-loading--5406192
A commentary warns of an impending second revolution within Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), where figures like Justice Minister Norbert Mao serve as pieces in a high-stakes game.
Mao’s bid for Speaker of Parliament, despite not being NRM, relies on shadowy support from top UPDF echelons. The piece likens his overambition to Icarus, who flew too close to the sun and plummeted, highlighting the perils of hubris.
Drawing on Marxist theory, it suggests NRM’s embrace of capitalism could foster conditions for upheaval from above. While current Speaker Anita Among is likely to retain her post, Mao’s backers—powerful insiders—demand concessions, possibly elevating him to vice president or prime minister.
Mao himself claims Uganda’s political transitions occur in boardrooms via elite consensus, not elections, predicting a mix of opposition figures in the next cabinet. Yet, the analysis cautions that such promises are fleeting.
Ultimately, Mao’s fate could pave the way for the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) to ascend to the highest office, marking a top-down NRM revolution.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)