In a significant announcement regarding Uganda's political future, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has revealed plans to conclude her legislative leadership in 2031, while publicly endorsing her deputy as the preferred successor.
Addressing National Resistance Movement (NRM) delegates in Mbarara on Sunday, Among declared: "My current mandate marks my final term as Speaker. When this parliamentary cycle concludes in 2031, I will pass the mantle to my colleague Thomas Tayebwa." The declaration drew enthusiastic applause from assembled party members who had gathered to endorse her candidacy for the NRM's Central Executive Committee (CEC) position of Second National Vice Chairperson (Female).
Strategic Transition Plan
The Speaker outlined a comprehensive transition strategy, explaining that her departure from Parliament would coincide with vacating her CEC position. "When Speaker Tayebwa assumes office," Among stated, "I will simultaneously relinquish my party role to enable the next female Speaker to occupy this seat. This ensures continuous alignment between parliamentary leadership and party structures." This proposed handover represents a rare public succession roadmap within Uganda's political landscape.
Reflecting on her tenure, Among credited collaborative relationships across political lines for her effectiveness: "Maintaining goodwill across party divisions has been fundamental to our progress. Support for my CEC candidacy extends beyond regional loyalties – it's a nationwide endorsement from parliamentary colleagues."
Regional Backing for Leadership Bid
The Mbarara gathering solidified regional support for Among's CEC ambitions. Mbarara City Mayor Robert Kakyebezi championed her unopposed endorsement, asserting: "Her proven capability and vision make her the unequivocal choice for our party's highest decision-making body. We see no alternative candidate matching her qualifications."
Further endorsements emerged from Mwine Mpaka, Mbarara City South MP, who referenced Among's previous advocacy for local infrastructure: "Despite budget reallocations affecting the Katete Bridge project, we trust her continued influence to champion our development needs." Mpaka urged delegates to consolidate support for Among's party position bid.
Broader Political Context
NRM Chairman for Mbarara City Wilson Tumwine contextualized the endorsement within broader electoral objectives: "Our mission requires reclaiming lost political ground ahead of challenging elections. Securing Speaker Among's position strengthens our entire campaign structure as we work toward overwhelming presidential support in upcoming polls." Tumwine cautioned against complacency, noting: "Today's electorate demands compelling engagement. We must articulate our vision convincingly to secure their mandate."
Among currently faces prominent competition from former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga for the NRM Vice Chairperson position. Following the Mbarara gathering, Among traveled to Sheema Municipality seeking additional endorsements ahead of party elections.
This early succession declaration creates a seven-year transition timeline unprecedented in Uganda's parliamentary history, positioning Deputy Speaker Tayebwa as the presumptive future leader while establishing gender representation protocols for the powerful CEC position.
