Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao has urged the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to formally consider his bid for Speaker of the 12th Parliament, arguing that his candidacy aligns with the spirit of the cooperation agreement between his Democratic Party and the government.
Speaking during a television talk show on Thursday night, Mao said the next leadership of Parliament must focus on restoring public trust in the institution and strengthening its credibility.
“I’m hoping members of the 12th Parliament respect themselves enough to make decisions in the best interest of the country. The issues I’m raising, like restoring public trust in the institution of Parliament, are real issues,” Mao said.
“Fix those issues and I will be a happy man.”
Mao revealed that he has formally written to the NRM National Chairman, President Yoweri Museveni, notifying him of his interest in the Speakership.
“I think it would make sense for the NRM to say that they have at least considered my interest. I have written to the NRM chairperson,” he said.
Invoking the Cooperation Agreement
The Democratic Party leader anchored his argument on the cooperation framework signed between the NRM government and the DP in 2022, under which he joined Cabinet.
“The NRM national chairman invited me to join the Cabinet in 2021. I accepted and we signed documents. I believe when people make commitments, they should abide by those commitments,” Mao said.
“Our agreement is in writing. It even has a provision for introducing any topic.”
Mao questioned why his candidacy should be excluded from consideration simply because he comes from a partner political party rather than the ruling movement itself.
“What does it hurt NRM and Uganda if a candidate from a partner political party is also considered as a candidate to run the Parliament?” he asked.
A Growing Speakership Contest
Mao’s comments come as the race for the Speaker of the 12th Parliament widens. Incumbent Speaker Anita Among is seeking to retain the seat, with the NRM Central Executive Committee already endorsing her for continuity.
Other contenders who have declared interest include Mbale City Woman MP Lydia Wanyoto and State Minister for Lands Persis Namuganza.
Political observers say Mao’s strategy appears aimed at reframing the Speakership contest as a test of institutional independence and coalition politics, rather than a purely internal NRM decision.
With Parliament electing its Speaker through a vote of MPs under Article 82 of the Constitution, the contest is expected to trigger intense consultations and political mobilisation across party lines ahead of the first sitting of the 12th Parliament.
