UPC’s Jimmy Akena Calls for Idealistic Leadership, Backs Mao’s Speakership Bid ‎ -

The President of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), Jimmy Akena Obote, has expressed concern over Uganda’s growing public debt, legislative processes, and the increasing influence of money in politics, while weighing in on the unfolding race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament.

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‎Speaking on one of the media platforms, Akena criticized what he described as the rushed handling of parliamentary business, particularly the approval of borrowing and legislation.

‎The rate of borrowing and the way parliamentary committees are rushed through documents and other information to pass laws, I think, isn’t ideal,” he said.

‎Akena further lamented the growing commercialization of Uganda’s political landscape

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‎Today, the money factor in our politics is becoming increasingly significant; that’s where we’re hurting our politics and country,” he said.

‎Akena also commented on the recent declaration by the President of the Democratic Party (DP) and Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, to contest for the Speakership of the next Parliament

‎“There’s a Mao that Uganda needs. Can we find that Mao, or have we lost him? Idealistic, ambitious and all. Uganda needs that Mao in the speakership race,” he said, further expressing optimism about Mao’s candidacy.

‎I believe Norbert Mao can rise to the occasion. Mao can understand and rise to the role of Speaker. I pray he is able to do so. Will he get the opportunity? I also doubt it.”

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‎In recent days, Norbert Mao officially declared his bid for Speaker after concluding nationwide consultations.

‎Addressing journalists at the DP headquarters in Kampala earlier this week, Mao said he had gathered sufficient views and support from across the country to inform his decision to enter the race for the top legislative seat.

‎Mao identified corruption as Uganda’s most pressing challenge, arguing that it has become deeply entrenched among individuals in positions of authority. If elected Speaker, he pledged to prioritize accountability, transparency, and institutional integrity within Parliament.

‎Mao emphasized the need for Parliament to

‎reclaim its oversight role and ensure responsible management of public resources.

‎However, Mao urged supporters and party members not to actively campaign for him, asserting that his qualifications, experience, and political track record speak for themselves.

‎Mao described Uganda as having ended up with what he termed an “accidental Speaker” following the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah in September 2022. He argued that the current Speaker, Anita Among, assumed office due to unforeseen circumstances rather than as part of a long-term leadership plan.

‎According to Mao, the country now requires a deliberate and well-considered choice in the next Speakership race, rather than one shaped by circumstance.

‎Mao has previously stated that the cooperation agreement between the Democratic Party and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) places him in a favorable position in the Speakership contest. He noted that the NRM’s parliamentary majority, combined with the DP–NRM partnership, significantly strengthens his chances.

‎Despite the Democratic Party holding only six seats in Parliament, Mao revealed that several Members of Parliament—including some from outside the DP—have privately pledged their support.

‎Mao also confirmed that he has initiated consultations with President Yoweri Museveni under the framework of the cooperation agreement, emphasizing that his approach is grounded in dialogue, consensus-building, and political accommodation rather than confrontation.

‎Mao is among at least six candidates who have expressed interest in leading the 12th Parliament.

‎Other contenders include incumbent Speaker Anita Among; Persis Namuganza, MP-elect for Bukono County and State Minister for Housing; Lydia Wanyoto, MP-elect for Mbale City; Dr. Florence Asiimwe Akiiki, Woman MP-elect for Masindi District; and Yorke Odria Alioni, MP for Aringa South County—all affiliated with the National Resistance Movement