Politics 21 May 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Norbert Mao Seeks Museveni's Nod for NRM CEC Speaker Bid Presentation
Laroo-Pece Division MP Norbert Mao has formally requested an audience with President Yoweri Museveni to gain permission to present his case for the Speakership of Parliament before the NRM's Central Executive Committee (CEC). The meeting aims to clarify Mao's intentions as speculation about his withdrawal from the race intensifies. Source: https://observer.ug/news/speaker-mao-seeks-audience-with-museveni-ahead-of-nrm-cec-meeting
Norbert Mao, a Member of Parliament for Laroo-Pece Division and former Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, is actively pursuing the position of Speaker of Parliament. He has appealed to President Yoweri Museveni for an opportunity to address the ruling National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) regarding his bid.
Mao, who also leads the opposition Democratic Party (DP), is reportedly still in the race despite recent speculation to the contrary. His constituency manager, George Aligec, confirmed that Mao has formally sought permission from the President to present his qualifications and vision to the CEC.
However, NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong noted that CEC meetings are exclusively for NRM members. Mao, as a member of a different party, would need a specific invitation from the NRM National Chairperson to attend. Todwong also indicated that the NRM had previously identified preferred candidates for the speaker and deputy speaker roles but recent political developments necessitate a review at the upcoming CEC meeting.
Todwong clarified that the cooperation agreement between NRM and DP does not cover the sharing of parliamentary positions. He advised Mao to formally communicate his interest in writing to the NRM party leadership. This development follows Mao’s attendance at the NRM National Delegates Conference last month as a guest of President Museveni.
Recent reports suggest internal shifts within the NRM’s preferred candidates, with former Speaker Anita Annet Among reportedly withdrawing from the race. Additionally, the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) has endorsed Defence Minister Jacob Oboth-Oboth for Speaker and Thomas Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker. The CEC meeting is expected to clarify the NRM’s final stance on these key parliamentary leadership positions.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)