The President General of the Democratic Party, Norbert Mao, has described Uganda as having ended up with what he termed an “accidental Speaker” following the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah.
Mao said the current Speaker, Anita Among, assumed office due to unforeseen circumstances rather than as part of a long-term leadership plan for Parliament.
“Oulanyah passed away while still serving as Speaker, creating a vacancy that had to be filled,” Mao said, arguing that the transition altered the intended course of Parliament’s leadership.
Oulanyah died in 2022 while in office, prompting Parliament to elect a new Speaker in accordance with constitutional procedures. Among, who had been serving as Deputy Speaker, was subsequently elected to the top position.
However, Mao contends that the country now needs what he called a deliberate and well-thought-out choice in the next Speakership race rather than one shaped by circumstance.
“We need to make a conscious decision about the kind of leadership Parliament requires,” he said, adding that strong institutions depend on intentional leadership choices.
Mao, who has expressed interest in the Speakership, said his bid is aimed at restoring what he described as institutional strength, independence and accountability within Parliament.
He argued that Parliament must assert its oversight role more robustly and operate independently while maintaining constructive engagement with the Executive.
Political analysts say Mao’s remarks signal early positioning ahead of future parliamentary leadership contests, while also reflecting broader debates about the balance of power and institutional autonomy within Uganda’s governance framework.
The Speaker of Parliament plays a central role in presiding over House proceedings, maintaining order and guiding legislative business, making the office one of the most influential positions in the country’s political system.
