President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also chairman of the ruling National Resistance Movement, has asked party MPs to rally behind Anita Among and her deputy Thomas Tayebwa for another five-year term at the helm of Parliament.
According to NRM spokesperson Emmanuel Lumala Dombo, the President’s position was formally communicated to party Secretary General Richard Todwong following a meeting of the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) on February 20, where members endorsed the continuation of the current parliamentary leadership.
The endorsement lands as the race for the Speaker’s seat gathers momentum. Several prominent figures have already declared interest in challenging Among, including Justice Minister Norbert Mao, Aringa South MP Yorke Odria, Mbale City Woman MP-elect Lydia Wanyoto, and Masindi Woman MP Florence Asiimwe Akiiki.
CEC members reportedly argued that retaining Among and Tayebwa would ensure legislative continuity, smooth passage of government-backed bills, and maintain cohesion within Parliament.
Under Article 82 of the Constitution, MPs elect the Speaker and Deputy Speaker through a secret ballot presided over by the Chief Justice or a designated judge. However, within the NRM, the CEC traditionally vets and backs preferred candidates before the parliamentary vote a move that often shapes the final outcome.
With the election for Parliament’s top offices expected in May, the battle for the Speaker’s chair is already gathering steam.
