KAMPALA, UGANDA – The race for the Speaker of the 12th Parliament has gained a significant new contender, with Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao formally announcing his bid for the prestigious office on Tuesday.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Speaking at a media briefing at the Democratic Party (DP) headquarters in Kampala on February 24, 2026, the Laroo-Pece Division MP-elect confirmed that his extensive period of consultations has concluded.
Mao, who also serves as the President of the DP, declared his intention to steer the 12th Parliament, framing his candidacy as a mission to restore balance and integrity to the legislative house.
“I came to announce my candidacy for Speaker of the 12th Parliament. He emphasized that his goal is to “unchain Parliament” and serve Uganda by “balancing the boat,” Mao told journalists.
Mao stated he would not actively campaign for the position, arguing in a departure from traditional politicking that marketing oneself contravenes the Rules of Procedure of Parliament.
He expressed confidence that his qualifications and vision speak for themselves, adding that his priorities would center on promoting accountability and bolstering integrity among his colleagues.
Following Mao’s declaration, the race for the Speaker’s chair has intensified, as he joins a growing list of candidates challenging incumbent Anita Annet Among, who has secured the endorsement of the ruling NRM caucus.
Besides Mao and Among, the field now includes State Minister for Lands Persis Namuganza, NRM’s Mbale City Woman MP-elect Lydia Wanyoto, and Aringa South MP Alioni Yorke Odria.
Odria, who announced his bid prior to Mao, stated his aim is to restore “the lost glory of Parliament” through an agenda focused on eliminating corruption, promoting media freedom, and establishing an independent fund for constituency development.
With five candidates now formally in the race, Among, Namuganza, Wanyoto, Odria, and Mao, the run-up to the May 2026 elections promises to be a highly competitive battle for control of the 12th Parliament’s leadership.
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