NRM Endorses Among and Tayebwa for Parliament Leadership Amid Internal Dissent
KAMPALA — The Central Executive Committee (CEC) of Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has endorsed Speaker Anita Annet Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa to retain their positions in the 12th Parliament. The decision, made during a January 27 meeting at State House in Entebbe, follows the party’s tradition of allowing two five-year terms for the roles.
President Yoweri Museveni, who chaired the meeting, praised the duo for their work on key legislation and their support during the recent elections, in which he secured 71.65% of the vote. He called for unity and focus on party principles following the endorsement.
Despite being described as unanimous, the decision did not pass without internal objection. Kyotera MP-elect and State Minister for Microfinance, Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, openly opposed Speaker Among’s second term. He accused the Bukedea Woman MP-elect of antagonizing him during the recent election campaigns without cause.
Furthermore, notable discontent emerged publicly after the meeting. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, a senior member of the NRM and Minister for Information, questioned the endorsement process in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He stated, “All of us who have been elected to the 12th Parliament are eligible to contest for Speakership. Why would CEC be in a hurry to endorse our Speakers when no call for expression of interest has been issued by the party? No to such bad decisions.”
The post garnered significant attention, amassing over 142,000 views and sparking debate among party followers.
Responding to her endorsement, Speaker Among expressed her elation, saying she was “all over the moon” and committed to continuing her service.
Given the NRM’s overwhelming majority in Parliament, the endorsement by CEC makes the confirmation of Among and Tayebwa during the swearing-in ceremony in May all but certain. The move is expected to ensure stability for the passage of national budgets and the government’s legislative agenda in the new term.
About The Author
