Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has summoned an urgent meeting of the National Resistance Movement Central Executive Committee (CEC) on Friday, May 22, as the ruling party seeks to settle on its preferred candidates for Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament.
The meeting comes just days before Parliament is scheduled to elect its new leadership on Monday, May 25, placing the CEC at the center of one of the most politically sensitive contests since the conclusion of the 2026 general elections.
The ruling National Resistance Movement holds an overwhelming majority in Parliament, making its internal endorsement process crucial in determining who ultimately takes control of the House.
Among’s Exit Reshapes the Race
The emergency meeting follows a dramatic political shift triggered by the withdrawal of outgoing Speaker Anita Annet Among from the Speaker race amid mounting anti-corruption investigations.
Among announced earlier that she would no longer contest for the Speakership, saying she wanted to preserve party unity and support candidates endorsed by President Museveni and the NRM.
Her withdrawal came after reports of anti-corruption raids targeting properties linked to her and individuals associated with her political network.
Security agencies are reportedly investigating allegations involving illicit enrichment, suspicious financial transactions and possible breaches of the Anti-Corruption Act and Leadership Code Act.
The investigations have already triggered major political realignments within the ruling party and intensified lobbying ahead of the parliamentary vote.
Oboth-Oboth Emerges as Front-Runner
Attention has increasingly shifted toward Jacob Oboth-Oboth, who has emerged as one of the strongest names linked to the Speakership race following public backing from influential political actors, including Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The Speaker contest has also exposed growing power struggles within the ruling establishment, particularly following the withdrawal of support for Among by the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).
Meanwhile, competition for the Deputy Speaker position remains fluid, with several legislators expressing interest as regional blocs and party factions continue consultations.
NRM Caucus Decision Expected to Shape Parliament
Political analysts say the CEC meeting is expected to significantly influence the direction of the incoming Parliament, not only in terms of leadership, but also in determining the balance of power within the ruling party itself.
Traditionally, once the CEC settles on preferred candidates, the NRM parliamentary caucus moves to formally endorse them ahead of voting on the floor of Parliament.
Given the party’s numerical strength, the caucus endorsement has historically been decisive.
The developments come at a time when the 12th Parliament is beginning its term under heightened public scrutiny over corruption, governance reforms, and institutional accountability.
The outcome of the Speaker race is therefore expected to shape both the political tone and legislative direction of Uganda’s next parliamentary term.
