Kyankwanzi, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni has stirred the race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament after signaling openness to competition within the ruling party, while also outlining key priorities for the next legislature.
Speaking during the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) retreat at the National Leadership Institute, Museveni indicated that the position of Speaker is not reserved for any individual, effectively opening the contest among party members.
Museveni said recommendations by the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) to retain current Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa would be reconsidered.
He explained that while maintaining incumbents had become a party tradition, the matter would now be subjected to broader discussion within the NRM parliamentary caucus to ensure fairness and give all interested candidates an opportunity to contest.
The remarks have intensified political activity within the ruling National Resistance Movement, with several aspirants reportedly positioning themselves to challenge incumbent Speaker Anita Among ahead of the 12th Parliament.
Sources from the retreat say Museveni emphasized the need for leaders to be chosen based on merit, ideological clarity, and commitment to the party’s principles, rather than entitlement or seniority.
Museveni emphasized that the final decision rests with the party caucus, urging members to engage in open and respectful debate.
He cautioned against attempts to predetermine outcomes or unfairly favour particular candidates, noting that internal democracy is essential for party unity and credibility.
At the same gathering, the President outlined his expectations for the next Parliament, urging legislators to focus on fighting corruption, strengthening accountability, and safeguarding public resources. He stressed that Parliament must play a central role in ensuring that government programmes deliver tangible results to citizens.
Museveni also called for discipline and unity within the NRM caucus, warning against internal divisions that could weaken the party’s effectiveness in advancing its legislative agenda.
The Speaker race is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests in the lead-up to the new Parliament, with analysts noting that Museveni’s remarks could reshape alliances within the ruling party.
The Kyankwanzi retreat, attended by NRM Members of Parliament and senior party officials, continues to serve as a key platform for setting the political and legislative direction of the party ahead of the next parliamentary term.
