Museveni Shakes Up Parliament Leadership, Urges MPs to Prioritize National Service

By Peter Luzinda 

 

Kyankwanzi, Uganda — Thursday, April 9, 2026 — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today reopened the contest for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, sending a strong signal that previous party endorsements are not final and urging lawmakers to focus on national priorities rather than personal ambitions.

Speaking at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi during the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) retreat, Museveni clarified that the Central Executive Committee’s (CEC) earlier recommendation to retain the incumbent Speaker, Anita Annet Among, and Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, will be revisited.

“CEC had recommended that we maintain the two because it had become a tradition,” Museveni said. “However, the matter will be discussed thoroughly by the parliamentary caucus to ensure fairness and allow all interested candidates to present their case.” His remarks have reignited competition for the top parliamentary positions, which many had assumed were already decided.

Several MPs have already expressed interest in the speakership, including Norbert Mao, Yorke Alioni Odria, Mbale City Woman MP-elect Lydia Wanyoto, Masindi Woman MP Dr. Florence Akiiki, and Persis Namuganza. Political observers say Museveni’s intervention has shifted the dynamics within the party, opening space for negotiation and alliance building among legislators.

 

Fairness and Accountability in Focus

 

Museveni emphasized that the final decision rests with the NRM parliamentary caucus and urged members to engage in open and respectful debate. He warned against attempts to pre-empt the process or unfairly favor any candidate, noting that internal party democracy is critical for credibility and cohesion.

He also called on MPs to uphold integrity, warning against corruption and stressing that public service must come above personal gain. “Leadership is about responsibility and service, not enrichment or privilege,” Museveni said.

 

Parliament’s Role in National Transformation

 

Beyond the leadership issue, Museveni outlined the core responsibilities of the 12th Parliament, urging MPs to focus on economic growth, security, and improving the welfare of citizens. He stressed that prosperity comes through production and hard work, not through dependence or corruption.

He encouraged legislators to champion initiatives that improve access to energy, water, education, and healthcare, and to uphold values such as patriotism, unity, and ideological clarity, which he said are essential for long-term national development.

 

Implications for Political Dynamics

 

Analysts suggest Museveni’s intervention will reshape strategies within the NRM and affect alliances as the party prepares to elect parliamentary leaders. By reopening debate, the President has emphasized both inclusivity and competition, ensuring that the process reflects broader party consensus rather than unilateral decisions.

The Kyankwanzi retreat, a critical platform for guiding party strategy and legislative priorities, is expected to set the tone for the new Parliament and influence Uganda’s governance agenda in the months ahead.