Politics 12 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Norbert Mao's Speaker Bid: A Political Pacemaker?
Norbert Mao's challenge for the Speaker of Parliament role has stirred the political landscape, raising questions about his ultimate intentions and the dynamics within the ruling NRM party. His campaign has exposed incumbent Annet Among's vulnerabilities and highlighted the complex power plays orchestrated by the First Family. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/nicholas-sengooba/is-norbert-mao-a-pacemaker-or-competitor--5456096
The race for the Speaker of Uganda’s Parliament has taken an unexpected turn with the entry of Norbert Mao, the leader of the Democratic Party (DP) and current Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. Initially, the ruling NRM party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) had reportedly endorsed the incumbent, Annet Among, and her deputy. Among, who rose rapidly through the NRM ranks from the opposition, has wielded considerable influence during her tenure, controlling legislative processes and resource allocation.
Mao’s decision to contest, reportedly at President Museveni’s urging, has sent ripples through the political establishment. His campaign has been characterized by a direct assault on alleged corruption within Parliament under Among’s leadership, with Mao vowing to ‘drain the swamp.’ This challenge has shaken Among and her supporters, who initially dismissed Mao as an ‘outsider.’
The political winds in Uganda are often read through the pronouncements of the First Family. President Museveni’s actions, such as allowing Mao to attend an NRM retreat after initial endorsements for Among, suggest a strategic shift. The involvement of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of the President and Chief of Defence Forces, has added another layer of complexity, with his social media posts appearing to critique Among while also questioning Mao’s loyalty to the DP.
Mao’s bid appears to be serving as a catalyst, exposing Among’s perceived weaknesses and forcing her out of her comfort zone. Political analysts suggest that Mao may be acting as a ‘pacemaker’ in politics – setting a strong pace for others to follow, only to step aside later. While he may not ultimately win the Speakership, his actions could pave the way for a candidate favoured by Museveni, one who is loyal and poses no threat to the established succession plans.
The path for ‘outsiders’ like Mao is fraught with challenges within established parties. They can create disquiet among long-serving members and potentially upset internal power structures. The situation underscores the NRM’s ongoing transition, where loyalty and alignment with Museveni’s ultimate vision are paramount for ascendancy.