Three Friends, One Mission: Shyaka, Tumukunde, Thomas Join Deputy Speaker Race

In the spirit of unity, friendship, and service above self, three best friends—Shyaka Stephen Gashaija, Tumukunde, and Thomas—have all formally expressed interest in serving as Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament of Uganda.

The trio is among the 16 National Resistance Movement (NRM) lawmakers who have thrown their hats into the ring for the deputy speakership, following a declaration by the party’s Electoral Commission on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

Addressing journalists at the party’s Electoral Commission headquarters, NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, Dr Tanga Odoi, confirmed that the race for the deputy speaker position has attracted intense competition, with 16 candidates vying for the seat. Meanwhile, three party lawmakers are contesting for the Speaker position.

Different Ambitions, One Friendship

Despite their shared personal bond, the three friends are now competitors in one of the most high-stakes political contests in the country’s 12th Parliament.

Shyaka Stephen Gashaija, the newly‑elected Entebbe Municipality MP, confirmed his interest, emphasizing that their different ambitions do not undermine their friendship.

“Different ambitions, one friendship, one mission—to serve the people with dignity, unity, and leadership,” a source close to the three legislators quoted.

The trio’s joint entry into the race underscores a rare blend of camaraderie and political competition, setting the stage for a unique dynamic within the NRM Parliamentary Caucus.

What Happens Next

The ultimate fate of all 19 aspirants—three for Speaker and 16 for Deputy Speaker—now rests with the party’s top leadership.

Dr Tanga Odoi confirmed that the candidates will undergo rigorous vetting by the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) on Sunday morning, May 24, 2026. Thereafter, the matter will be brought to the broader NRM Parliamentary Caucus later the same day.

The declaration follows a direct order from the party’s highest political organ, opening the race for the leadership of the 12th Parliament.

A Test of Unity and Service

Political analysts note that the contest will test how the three friends balance personal loyalty with political ambition. However, those close to them insist their mission remains unchanged: to serve the people with dignity, unity, and leadership.

As Uganda watches, the Entebbe Municipality MP and his two closest allies now await the CEC’s verdict—proving that even in fierce competition, friendship and service can walk the same path.