Kyankwanzi, Uganda — A sharp public disagreement has emerged between Speaker Anita Among and Justice Minister Norbert Mao over the race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, exposing tensions within the ruling coalition ahead of a crucial vote.
The clash unfolded on April 9 during the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) retreat in Kyankwanzi, where legislators are meeting to align on key leadership positions before the new Parliament is sworn in next month.
Among, who is seeking to retain her position, reportedly warned coalition partners — including Mao’s Democratic Party — against interfering in what she described as the NRM’s internal affair.
Using a metaphor that quickly drew attention, she likened the Speakership contest to a “bedroom matter,” signaling that the ruling party should determine its own candidate without outside influence.
Mao, whose party cooperates with the NRM under a political agreement, pushed back strongly, criticizing Among’s remarks as inappropriate. He called for respect and restraint, urging leaders to defer to President Yoweri Museveni, whom he described as the “head of the family” in guiding such decisions.
The disagreement highlights growing friction within the NRM-led alliance, with multiple candidates — reportedly at least six — expressing interest in the powerful Speaker position. Tensions at the retreat were further underscored when Mao was reportedly blocked from addressing the gathering, raising concerns about inclusivity in the decision-making process.
Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, Muhoozi Kainerugaba weighed in on social media, calling on Mao to step aside — a move that has fueled debate both within political circles and among the public.
The Speakership race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests ahead of the swearing-in of the 12th Parliament in May. The position, second in the order of national leadership, carries significant influence over legislative business and political direction.
As the NRM caucus prepares to take a decisive vote, the latest exchange between Among and Mao signals potential strain in alliances that have underpinned the government’s parliamentary dominance.
More developments are expected as consultations continue within the party and its partners.
