Politics 19 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
NUP Backs Paul Mwiru for Speaker, Demands Gen. Muhoozi's Neutrality
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has nominated Paul Mwiru as its candidate for Speaker of Parliament, emphasizing his commitment to fighting corruption and upholding parliamentary integrity. The party also called for military officials to remain non-partisan. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nup-unveils-paul-mwiru-for-speaker-says-gen-muhoozi-must-stay-non-partisan-5465506
The National Unity Platform (NUP), Uganda’s primary opposition party, has put forward its Jinja South East legislator, Paul Mwiru, as its candidate for the upcoming Speaker of Parliament elections.
During a party caucus meeting, NUP Members of Parliament unanimously endorsed Mwiru, a lawyer known for his strong stance against corruption and a commitment to restoring the dignity and impartiality of Parliament.
“The Speaker’s office is a matter that involves all Ugandans,” Mwiru stated after his unveiling, vowing to ensure the office serves national interests rather than partisan or sectional agendas. He promised to champion accountability and treat all Ugandans equally, regardless of their background.
NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya also used the occasion to criticize the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for what the party views as partisan involvement. Rubongoya argued that as a military officer, Gen. Kainerugaba should remain non-partisan, especially when making public endorsements for political positions.
The party criticized the NRM-leaning candidate, Jacob Oboth-Oboth, pointing to alleged involvement in past scandals and controversial legislative actions, contrasting this with Mwiru’s “clean hands.”
Mwiru, a former FDC legislator, joins a competitive race that includes several NRM-aligned candidates and other political figures. Speaker elections are scheduled for May 25, 2026.