Norbert Mao has reaffirmed his determination to remain in the race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, insisting he will not step down despite mounting political pressure and emerging alignments ahead of the parliamentary vote.
Mao said his candidature is anchored on principle rather than political convenience, framing the contest as part of a wider push for accountability and institutional reform.
His remarks come as attention shifts to the final stage of the Speaker election, where competing blocs have been consolidating support behind key contenders.
“I’m in the race to the end. I will not join the wave of withdrawals,” Mao said, signalling that he intends to proceed regardless of prevailing political arithmetic in Parliament.
He argued that the struggle behind his bid extends beyond the immediate election, describing it as a long-term cause tied to governance and anti-corruption efforts. Mao maintained that stepping down at this stage would contradict the purpose of his candidature.
Months into his campaign, Mao reflected on what he described as sustained political pressure and resistance, while maintaining that incremental efforts have contributed to broader shifts in accountability conversations within the political system.
“I have crossed the Rubicon. Let the chips fall where they will,” he said, underscoring what he portrayed as an irreversible decision to remain in the race.
He further linked his political journey to a wider struggle for institutional integrity, arguing that reform requires persistence even in the face of dominant political forces.
“The cause for which I declared my candidature for the Position of Speaker of Parliament is an enduring cause. It doesn’t end with the casting of the vote tomorrow,” Mao stated.
In his message, Mao also invoked religious conviction, suggesting that his efforts are guided by faith and that the final outcome rests beyond political calculation.
“God is not deaf. God is not blind. God is not dumb. He hears, He sees and He speaks. God Bless the 12th Parliament. God Bless Uganda,” he said.
The Speaker race has drawn heightened attention following the ruling National Resistance Movement’s endorsement of Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, setting up a contest that still includes Mao alongside other contenders.
As Parliament moves closer to the vote, Mao’s latest statement reinforces his position as a candidate unwilling to negotiate withdrawal, instead casting his bid as both symbolic and strategic in Uganda’s evolving parliamentary landscape.