Tensions around the race for Uganda’s Speaker of Parliament have escalated after Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly dismissed the possibility of support for Justice Minister Norbert Mao, while firmly placing President Yoweri Museveni at the centre of decision-making.
In a statement that has stirred political debate, Muhoozi said:
“My big brother Mao is DP. It’s impossible that NRM and PLU will vote for him. Muraregye.”
He further reinforced the position of the Patriotic League Uganda (PLU), stating:
“PLU supports whatever position President Museveni takes and we do not listen to NRM’s CEC.”
The remarks come at a time when Norbert Mao, who also leads the Democratic Party (DP), is actively pursuing the Speakership of the 12th Parliament.
Mao’s candidature has been framed by his party as a reform-driven bid aimed at strengthening parliamentary independence, improving transparency, and restoring public confidence in legislative processes.
However, Muhoozi’s comments appear to underline the political arithmetic expected to shape the race, particularly within the ruling establishment and its allied structures.
His reference to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) also signals an ongoing internal power dynamic over who ultimately determines key parliamentary leadership positions.
The PLU, which Muhoozi referenced directly, has increasingly positioned itself as a political force aligned with presidential authority.
The organisation’s stance suggests that support in the Speakership race may not follow internal party structures but instead align with presidential preference.
The race is widely viewed as a strategic battle for influence over Parliament’s leadership, given its role in shaping legislation and government oversight.
Mao’s entry into the race has been interpreted by his supporters as an attempt to present a bipartisan alternative capable of bridging political divides.
However, Muhoozi’s remarks suggest that the contest may ultimately be determined less by party endorsements and more by executive alignment.