Former government spokesperson and newly sworn-in Member of Parliament for the elderly, Ofwono Opondo, has weighed in on the evolving race for Speaker of Parliament, maintaining his support for outgoing Speaker Anita Among while raising concerns about emerging candidates.
Speaking during an interview on NBS Television on Thursday night, Opondo confirmed that he had officially assumed office as an MP and was preparing to participate in internal party processes that will shape the leadership of the 11th Parliament.
“I’m an MP now, I was given a key to my office this morning. I’m now looking forward to the NRM caucus where we will determine the candidate for Speakership,” he said.
His remarks come at a time of heightened political activity within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), following reports that Anita Among had stepped back from the race.
The development has triggered fresh debate, particularly after Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly signaled support for alternative candidates.
Despite the shifting landscape, Opondo made it clear that his position remains unchanged unless formally directed otherwise by the party’s top decision-making organ.
“I’m still team Anita Among and Thomas Tayebwa until CEC withdraw their position and give us a new candidate,” he stated.
The Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the NRM is expected to play a decisive role in guiding the party’s stance ahead of the Speaker election, with the caucus set to consolidate support around a single candidate.
Opondo also questioned the growing speculation around some of the names being floated, particularly that of Oboth Oboth, noting that there has been no formal declaration of interest from him.
“Oboth Oboth, to the best of my knowledge, hasn’t declared interest in being Speaker. I cannot support someone who hasn’t declared his interest,” he said.
His comments underscore internal concerns within the party about the transparency and structure of the selection process, especially as different factions appear to rally behind preferred candidates.
In the same interview, Opondo addressed his swearing-in, clarifying his choice to make a solemn affirmation rather than swear by a religious text.
“In the constitution, you either swear by the holy book or make an affirmation. I did the solemn affirmation and you don’t need to mention God or have a holy book,” he explained.
The Speaker race is shaping up as one of the most closely watched political contests in Uganda’s current parliamentary transition, with party unity and executive influence expected to play a central role in determining the outcome.