Kampala – In a sharp and decisive intervention that has sent ripples through Uganda’s political landscape, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has firmly shut down speculation about alternative candidates for the Speakership of the 12th Parliament, throwing his weight solidly behind incumbent Speaker Anita Among.
Via his Official X- platform, Gen Muhoozi addressed growing calls for Democratic Party (DP) President General Norbert Mao to be considered for the top legislative job.
He dismissed the idea outright, citing Mao’s deep roots in the opposition DP as the core reason why neither the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) nor the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) could extend trust to him in such a sensitive constitutional position.
“Mao is DP. He remains DP. How can we, as NRM and PLU, give such a critical role to someone whose political DNA is rooted in the opposition?” Gen Muhoozi stated, according to sources present at the meeting. “The Speaker must be someone we can trust completely to protect the agenda of the revolution and the interests of the people who elected this government.”
The General’s remarks come at a time when quiet lobbying had intensified for a possible shift in parliamentary leadership, with some voices suggesting Mao’s experience and neutral appeal could bring stability. Muhoozi’s intervention is being interpreted as a clear signal that the powers that be are not interested in experimentation or accommodation on this matter.
Political analysts say the statement achieves two things: it silences those pushing for Mao or any other outsider, and it delivers a powerful public endorsement for Rt. Hon. Anita Among, who has presided over the current Parliament with strong alignment to the ruling establishment.
Among, who has faced her share of criticism from opposition figures and sections of the public, is now seen as even more secure in her position.
Sources close to the PLU camp describe Muhoozi’s words as “a game changer” that removes any lingering ambiguity ahead of key parliamentary decisions.Mao himself has not yet issued a direct response, but DP insiders say the party views the comments as confirmation of what they have always known, that certain positions remain off-limits regardless of individual competence.
As Uganda’s political class prepares for the full business of the new term, Gen Muhoozi’s intervention has once again underscored his growing influence in shaping not just military but also political direction.
For Speaker Among, it is a significant boost that strengthens her hand as she steers the House through what promises to be a consequential period.
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