By Tamara Nalubowa
Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) President Jimmy Akena has distanced his party from early endorsements in the race for the Speakership of the 12th Parliament, saying UPC has not yet taken an official position on whom to support.
Addressing speculation surrounding the party’s stance, Akena emphasized that individuals currently speaking in favor of specific contenders are doing so in their personal capacities and do not represent the official position of UPC.
“UPC as a party has not endorsed the current Speaker and is yet to decide who to support,” Jimmy Akena said.
His remarks come at a time when political alignments are beginning to take shape ahead of the May vote, with parties and individual legislators weighing strategic alliances.
The contest gained further momentum on February 24, 2026 when Democratic Party (DP) President Norbert Mao officially declared his bid for Speaker.
Speaking at a press conference, Mao — who also serves as Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs — described his candidacy as part of what he called a necessary transition in Parliament’s leadership.
He referred to the current speakership as “accidental,” arguing that it emerged from the sudden death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah rather than from a long-term, deliberate political arrangement.
Mao said he hopes the existing cooperation agreement between the Democratic Party and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) can provide a basis for unity within the House.
Mao now joins a growing list of contenders seeking the influential position.
Among those who have declared interest are State Minister for Lands Persis Namuganza and Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, both reportedly seeking backing from the NRM.
They are challenging the incumbent Speaker Anita Among, who is seeking a second term, alongside her Deputy, Thomas Tayebwa.
While some reports indicate that the NRM Central Executive Committee may favor retaining the current leadership, signs of internal contestation have emerged.
Aringa South MP Alioni Odria has also declared his candidacy, rejecting suggestions that positions have been “ring-fenced” and calling for leadership anchored in constitutional order rather than party loyalty.
With multiple high-profile figures in the race and several blocs yet to publicly align, the vote for Speaker is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political events in the transition to Uganda’s 12th Parliament.
