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Uganda’s political scene has been stirred after strong remarks by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who publicly dismissed any chance of Norbert Mao becoming Speaker of the 12th Parliament. His words have ignited debate across both ruling and opposition camps.
Speaking at a burial ceremony in Rukiga District, Tayebwa did not mince his words.
He warned that it would be politically dangerous for the ruling party to support a Speaker from outside its ranks.
Tayebwa made it clear that the National Resistance Movement intends to keep control of the most powerful positions in Parliament. According to him, party loyalty and survival must always come first.
“I am 100 percent sure that the NRM government and the NRM party will retain the Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions,” Tayebwa said. He stressed that these positions are non-negotiable for the ruling party.
He went further to explain his position using a simple comparison. Tayebwa said that if Mao were president of NRM, he would never hand over such powerful roles to a non-party member.
Tayebwa described such a move as “suicidal” for any political party. In his view, surrendering the Speaker’s seat would weaken NRM’s control over Parliament and its legislative agenda.
These remarks come at a time when reports suggest Mao, who leads the Democratic Party, is interested in the Speaker’s position. This has caused excitement and tension within political circles.
Mao’s ambitions have sparked discussion because of the cooperation agreement between DP and NRM.
Some observers had speculated that this partnership could come with major political concessions.
However, Tayebwa’s statements appear to shut down any such expectations. They clearly signal that NRM is not willing to trade away key leadership positions, regardless of political alliances.
The debate has also highlighted the intense competition shaping leadership talks ahead of the Parliament of Uganda’s 12th term. Power, influence, and party discipline are all at play.
Tayebwa emphasized that parliamentary leadership is not about personal ambition. Instead, he argued that it is about protecting party unity and ensuring stability in government.
As the ruling party continues to dominate Parliament, many NRM leaders believe that internal candidates should naturally take the top seats. This thinking has strong support within the party.
Meanwhile, support for the current Speaker continues to grow. Anita Among has received a major endorsement from the Acholi Parliamentary Group.
The group’s chairperson, Anthony Akol, praised Among’s leadership, saying she has promoted unity and order in the House.
Akol urged fellow MPs to back Among for another term. He argued that continuity would help Parliament remain effective and focused on national issues.
This endorsement is particularly significant because Mao also comes from the Acholi sub-region. It suggests that regional support may now favor the incumbent Speaker.
Among herself has expressed confidence and calm. She has stated publicly that she is not threatened by potential challengers and is ready to continue serving if given the mandate.
Attention is also turning to the Deputy Speaker’s race. Reports indicate that lawyer and legislator Marshall Alenyo has shown interest in the position.
Some political observers see this as a quiet challenge to the NRM leadership, which has already endorsed Tayebwa. It raises questions about whether party decisions will be followed without resistance.
There have also been reports that Hassan Basajjabalaba’s son is considering contesting for Deputy Speaker. This adds another layer of competition within the ruling party.
Anita Among has previously suggested that she could serve another term before eventually handing over leadership to Tayebwa. This statement has shaped expectations about future transitions.
As Uganda moves closer to forming the 12th Parliament, the Speaker’s race is becoming more than just a leadership contest. It is turning into a test of party strength, loyalty, and control.
Tayebwa’s blunt warning to Mao has drawn a clear political line. Whether this hard stance will reduce tension or fuel more debate remains to be seen in the days ahead.
