Politics 9 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kyankwanzi Clash: Anita Among Bars Mao from NRM 'Bedroom' in Speaker Race, Mao Fires Back
During an NRM retreat in Kyankwanzi, Speaker Anita Among likened Justice Minister Norbert Mao's Speaker bid to a guest invading the party's 'bedroom,' prompting Mao to call it bad politics and an insult to President Museveni. Mao emphasized his invitation by Museveni and the need for unity post-contest. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/speaker-race-what-norbert-mao-anita-among-said-about-each-other-in-kyankwanzi-5418600
The race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament heated up at the NRM leaders’ retreat at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, starting April 7, 2026. On April 9, Bukedea District Woman MP and current Speaker Anita Among addressed attendees, targeting Laroo-Pece Division MP-elect and Justice Minister Norbert Mao.
Among, who joined NRM in 2020 after years in FDC and an independent run, warned against outsiders encroaching on core NRM roles. ‘We cooperate with other parties, but you stay in the compound, not the bedroom. The Speakership is the bedroom this time,’ she stated.
Mao, Democratic Party president and a two-time presidential candidate, responded sharply on X and in a video. He labeled her comments ‘bad politics and bad manners,’ noting he was invited by NRM chair President Museveni. ‘Insulting your father’s guest insults the father,’ Mao said, stressing guests deserve respect in Ugandan culture.
He argued the Speaker needs majority parliamentary support, which NRM holds, but insisted on fair vetting. Mao highlighted his Cabinet role by presidential appointment and urged focus on national building after the time-bound race.
The exchange underscores tensions in the Speaker contest amid related NRM divisions and other aspirants like those from Bugisu challenging Among.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)