Among shrugs off ‘noise makers’ in speakership race
“The noise makers cannot determine leadership. If God says Anita and Thomas will lead the 12th Parliament, it will happen. No amount of noise will change it,” she said, referring to the ongoing speakership contest.
Among's comments were widely interpreted as being directed at the five lawmakers who have declared interest in the speakership, including Norbert Mao, the president general of the Democratic Party and justice minister, Persis Namuganza of Bukono County, Lydia Wanyoto, the newly elected Mbale city woman MP, Yorke Odria Alioni of Aringa South County, and Florence Asiimwe Akiiki, the Masindi district woman MP.
KAMPALA - The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, has dismissed criticism from her challengers, describing political opponents in the race as “noise makers” as the contest for the leadership of the 12th Parliament intensifies.
Among said leadership positions are divinely ordained and cannot be determined by public criticism, adding that the ultimate authority over who leads lies with God rather than public pressure.
“The noise makers cannot determine leadership. If God says Anita and Thomas will lead the 12th Parliament, it will happen. No amount of noise will change it,” she said, referring to the ongoing speakership contest.
The Speaker made the remarks during an Iftar dinner hosted by Parliament on February 28, 2026, as religious leaders and lawmakers gathered to break the fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
Her comments were widely interpreted as being directed at the five lawmakers who have declared interest in the speakership, including Norbert Mao, the president general of the Democratic Party and justice minister, Persis Namuganza of Bukono County, Lydia Wanyoto, the newly elected Mbale city woman MP, Yorke Odria Alioni of Aringa South County, and Florence Asiimwe Akiiki, the Masindi district woman MP.
The speakership race has attracted public attention as the 12th Parliament prepares for leadership elections amid growing political competition.
Among also urged Ugandans to embrace reconciliation and unity following the recently concluded election season, calling for a return to constructive political engagement.
She appealed to political actors to practise forgiveness during the fasting period, noting that both the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season provide opportunities for reflection.
She said campaign periods often create divisions, but stressed the importance of healing and apologising where necessary.
“We may have hurt each other knowingly or unknowingly during campaigns. What matters is what we do after recognising that. Let us forgive and move forward,” she said.
The speakership contest is expected to remain a focal point in parliamentary politics as lawmakers prepare to elect their new leadership when the House convenes.