Shockwaves have hit Uganda’s political scene following the declaration by Persis Namuganza that she will contest for Speaker of Parliament in the 2026–2031 term.
Her announcement has reportedly caused anxiety within the camp of incumbent Speaker Anita Among.
Namuganza, who represents Bukono County, made her intentions public in a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday.
In the statement, she said her decision is driven by a desire to strengthen unity, transparency, and inclusive leadership in Parliament.
The move has surprised many political observers because Namuganza is widely known as a close ally of former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga. Her entry into the race is therefore being seen as a serious challenge to the current leadership.
Sources close to Parliament say that news of Namuganza’s bid has unsettled Among’s supporters.
Some fear that the race for the Speaker’s seat may no longer be as predictable as previously thought.
Anita Among has enjoyed strong backing from various parliamentary groups and regions. Until now, many believed she would face little resistance in her bid to retain the powerful position.
However, Namuganza’s declaration has changed the political mood. Her reputation as a fearless and outspoken legislator has given her candidacy weight and credibility.
Namuganza is a trained lawyer and a seasoned Member of Parliament. Over the years, she has built a name for herself through bold motions and sharp interventions on the floor of the House.
She is particularly known for raising issues related to accountability and leadership responsibility. These actions have earned her both praise and criticism within political circles.
In her statement, Namuganza said Parliament needs leadership that listens to all Members, regardless of political affiliation. She argued that inclusiveness is key to strengthening democracy.
She also emphasized transparency, saying the Speaker’s office must be seen as fair and impartial. According to her, Parliament should be a place where every voice counts.
Supporters of Namuganza say her courage and independence make her suitable for the Speaker’s role. They believe she would bring a fresh approach to managing parliamentary affairs.
On the other hand, supporters of Anita Among argue that continuity is important. They say Among’s experience has helped stabilize the House during challenging political times.
Among has previously expressed confidence in her leadership and has said she is not intimidated by challengers. Her camp maintains that she still enjoys wide support across Parliament.
The contest is also reviving memories of past rivalries between political camps linked to Kadaga and those aligned with the current Speaker. This history adds more tension to the unfolding race.
Political analysts say Namuganza’s bid could divide opinion within the ruling party and Parliament at large. They note that internal competition often reshapes alliances.
The development has sparked intense discussion both inside and outside Parliament of Uganda. MPs are now quietly reassessing their positions ahead of the 2026 leadership elections.
Some observers believe Namuganza’s candidacy is also a test of how much influence Rebecca Kadaga still commands within parliamentary politics.
Others see it as a sign that more MPs may soon step forward to challenge established leaders. This could make the Speaker’s race more competitive than expected.
For Namuganza, the declaration marks a major political step. It signals her readiness to move from being a vocal legislator to a top institutional leader.
As Uganda edges closer to the 2026–2031 parliamentary term, the Speaker’s race is clearly heating up. What once looked settled is now uncertain.
Whether Namuganza’s bid will translate into real numbers on the floor of Parliament remains to be seen. What is certain is that her announcement has shaken the political ground and set the stage for an intense and closely watched contest.
