NRM CEC endorses Among, Tayebwa for 12th Parliament leadership amid Mao’s bid ‎ -

‎The Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has resolved to front the incumbent Speaker Anita Annet Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa as the party’s candidates for the top leadership positions in the Parliament of Uganda.

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‎In resolutions from its 8th meeting of the 5th CEC held in Entebbe on February 20, 2026, the party’s top decision-making organ reaffirmed an earlier decision recommending the two incumbents for adoption by the NRM Parliamentary Caucus.

‎The meeting resolved to “reiterate resolution No.12 of the 7th meeting of the 5th CEC,” stating that, in line with party precedent, the names of Among and Tayebwa would be forwarded to the caucus for endorsement as the NRM’s official candidates on the floor of Parliament.

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‎The committee noted that any issues that may arise during the process would be addressed on merit..

‎The decision comes amid growing political speculation about the leadership of the 12th Parliament and reports that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni could back Norbert Mao for the Speakership.

‎Mao, who serves as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and is president of the Democratic Party, recently confirmed he will contest for Speaker of the 12th Parliament.

‎His entry into the race sets up a competitive field that already includes the incumbent Speaker Among, State Minister for Lands Persis Namuganza, and veteran politician Lydia Wanyoto Mutende.

‎Announcing his bid, Mao said his decision was motivated by a determination to confront what he described as entrenched grand corruption in public institutions.

‎He argued that many Ugandans still lack the leverage needed to effectively hold leaders accountable.

‎Mao also disclosed that he had informed President Museveni of his intention to run, noting that he considered the existing cooperation agreement between the Democratic Party and the NRM before declaring his candidacy.

‎The development sets the stage for a potentially contested race for the leadership of the 12th Parliament, despite the NRM’s position to maintain continuity with the current Speaker and Deputy Speaker.