Uganda Opposition Raises Governance Concerns Ahead of Speakership Vote

The President of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), Jimmy Akena, has called for what he termed “idealistic and principled leadership” in Uganda as he weighed in on the unfolding race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament.

Akena raised concern over Uganda’s rising public debt and what he described as the increasingly rushed handling of legislative business, particularly the approval of government borrowing and key bills.

He criticised Parliament’s scrutiny of loan requests and legislation, arguing that the process has often lacked depth and adequate deliberation, with potential long-term implications for the country’s fiscal stability.

Turning to the speakership contest, Akena voiced optimism about the candidature of Norbert Mao, president of the Democratic Party (DP) and Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

He said the country needs a leader who is idealistic, ambitious and capable of steering Parliament toward institutional reform and greater accountability.

However, Akena questioned whether all Members of Parliament would assess the race purely on merit, citing what he termed the growing influence of money in Uganda’s politics.

Mao officially declared his bid for Speaker after concluding nationwide consultations. He faces competition from at least five other contenders, including incumbent Speaker Anita Among.

Aside from Among and Mao, other prominent figures linked to the 2026 Speaker race include Persis Namuganza, who has officially declared her bid citing support from more than 150 MPs, and Alion Yorke Odria, who has publicly campaigned against what he calls the “ring-fencing” of the position.

Current Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa is also widely cited by analysts as a strong contender, while Jacob Oboth-Oboth and opposition figures Asuman Basalirwa and Nandala Mafabi are considered potential challengers or symbolic candidates for their respective political blocs.

The contest for the leadership of the 12th Parliament is expected to draw close attention as political actors position themselves ahead of the new legislative term, amid wider debates over governance, fiscal discipline and parliamentary independence.