Jude Mike Mudoma, the cultural leader of the Bagisu, has urged Emmanuel Biara Wepukhulu to step down from the race for Deputy Speaker of Parliament in favor of Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, in a move aimed at promoting regional unity and gender balance in Parliament.
Speaking during a press conference held at the Institution of Umukuuka wa Bugisu headquarters in Maluku, Mbale City, the Umukuuka said he convened both leaders to encourage consensus after government endorsed Jacob Oboth-Oboth for the position of Speaker of the 12th Parliament.
Mudoma explained that with the Speakership already expected to go to a male candidate, it would be appropriate for Bugisu leaders to rally behind a woman candidate for Deputy Speaker.
“As your Umukuuka, I had to call my children together to promote peace and unity among our Members of Parliament so they can speak with one voice and work for the people,” Mudoma said.
He added that Bugisu had initially shown interest in both top parliamentary positions, but circumstances had changed following Oboth-Oboth’s endorsement.
The cultural leader thanked Biara for accepting to withdraw from the race, saying the decision would strengthen Bugisu’s bargaining power and improve the region’s chances of securing stronger government representation.
Biara confirmed that he had agreed to step aside in the interest of unity and gender sensitivity.
“Bugisu MPs have often been divided, but this time we are choosing unity. I wish my sister Lydia Wanyoto success and appeal to my supporters and MPs from other regions to back her,” he said.
The development has been welcomed by some local leaders and residents, including Hudson Ngotowa from Bulambuli District, who said the move signaled a new spirit of cooperation in Bugisu politics.
Meanwhile, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, through David Kabanda, announced that the Patriotic League of Uganda supports Oboth-Oboth for Speaker, while consultations continue on identifying a suitable female candidate for Deputy Speaker.
The race for parliamentary leadership has intensified ahead of the May 25 elections for Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament, with political alliances and regional negotiations increasingly shaping the contest.
