The Spokesperson of the Democratic Party, Kennedy Mutenyo, has weighed in on the growing contest for the Speakership of the 12th Parliament, emphasizing that the key aspect of President Museveni’s recent endorsement letter lies not in what was written.
“I see nothing wrong with that letter because that is how things should be done. The most important part is what was not written,” he said during Sanyuka Morning Xpress on Friday.
“I have lived in Uganda long enough to know that there is a difference between winning and being declared the winner.”
Mutenyo also reflected on the dynamics of the race, citing a connection with two of the candidates who are in the race.
“By nature, I prefer someone moderate, not an extremist. The race is interesting because Lydia Wanyoto is my MP, while Norbert Mao is my party president,” he said.
Mutenyo’s remarks come after President Museveni, who also serves as National Chairman of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), endorsed current Speaker Anita Annet Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa to retain their positions in the 12th Parliament.
The endorsement followed resolutions passed during the 8th meeting of the 5th Central Executive Committee (CEC) held on February 20, 2026.
The resolutions, signed by Museveni and NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, directed that Among and Tayebwa be fronted as the party’s official candidates for Speaker and Deputy Speaker, respectively.
Party officials confirmed that the names of the two leaders will now be forwarded to the NRM Parliamentary Caucus for formal adoption as flag bearers when the 12th Parliament convenes.
The early endorsement comes amid heightened political contestation, with several MPs from both the NRM and opposition parties reportedly expressing interest ahead of elections expected during the first sitting of the new Parliament.
Meanwhile, Democratic Party President and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao recently officially declared his bid for Speaker after completing a nationwide consultation phase.
Addressing journalists at the Democratic Party headquarters in Kampala, Mao said he had gathered sufficient views and support from across the country to inform his decision to enter the race for the top legislative seat.
Mao identified corruption as Uganda’s biggest challenge, arguing that it has become deeply entrenched among individuals in positions of authority. He said that if entrusted with the Speaker’s office, he would prioritise accountability, transparency, and institutional integrity within Parliament.
According to Mao, the legislature must reclaim its oversight role and ensure that public resources are managed responsibly.
However, the Democratic Party leader asked supporters and party members not to actively campaign for him, noting that he possesses the qualifications, experience, and track record necessary to contest the position.
Mao described Uganda as having ended up with what he termed an “accidental Speaker” following the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah in September 2022.
According to Mao, the current Speaker, Anita Among, assumed office due to unforeseen circumstances rather than as part of a long-term leadership plan for Parliament.
Mao argued that the country now needs what he described as a deliberate and well-thought-out choice in the next Speakership race rather than one shaped by circumstance.
Weeks earlier, Mao argued that the cooperation agreement between the Democratic Party and the ruling NRM places him in a favourable position in the Speakership race. He said the NRM’s majority in the incoming Parliament, combined with the DP–NRM partnership, significantly boosts his chances.
Mao revealed that several MPs, including legislators from outside the Democratic Party, have reached out to pledge support and assure him of their votes. Despite the DP currently holding only six seats in Parliament, Mao maintained that his political experience, leadership credentials, and alliance with the NRM strengthen his bid.
Some supporters have compared his leadership style to that of the late Jacob Oulanyah, describing Mao as a conciliatory and unifying figure capable of presiding over Parliament with balance and inclusivity.
Mao also disclosed that he has already begun consultations with President Museveni under the framework of the DP–NRM cooperation agreement, signalling that his approach to the Speakership race is rooted in dialogue, consensus-building, and political accommodation rather than confrontation.
Mao is one of at least six candidates who have expressed interest in leading the 12th Parliament.
Other contenders include incumbent Speaker Anita Among; Bukono County MP-elect and State Minister for Housing Persis Namuganza; Mbale City MP-elect Lydia Wanyoto; Masindi District Woman MP Florence Asiimwe Akiiki; and Aringa South County MP Yorke Odria Alioni—all affiliated with the NRM.
The Speakership race has emerged as one of the most closely watched political contests of the year.
