Gen. Kainerugaba asks PLU MPs to back Among, Tayebwa speakership bid

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The Chief of Defence Forces, who is also the Special Presidential Advisor on Special Operations and Chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has asked affiliated Members of Parliament (MPs) to maintain status quo and vote for Speaker Anita Among and her Deputy Thomas Tayebwa.

The development was announced by PLU’s Secretary General David Kabanda earlier today (March 11) in a post on social media X. He stated that Gen. Keinerugaba, has guided PLU leaning legislators to support the candidates who have been endorsed by the Central Executive Committee of the NRM. (below is the letter in full)

Several people including ministers have in the recent past expressed interest to contest for the post of Speaker. They include Constitutional Affairs minister Norbert Mao, who is also Member of Parliament-elect for Laroo-Pece Division in Gulu City and DP president.

Also in the race are: state minister for housing Persis Namuganza and Mbale City Woman MP-elect, Lydia Wanyoto and Aringa South MP-elect Alioni Yorke Odria.

An official letter issued by the CEC and dated February 20, 2026, indicated that during its 8th meeting held at State House, Entebbe, members of the 5th CEC deliberated extensively and in a cordial atmosphere before unanimously resolving to endorse the candidates.

“To reiterate resolutions No.12 of the 7th meeting of the 5th CEC meeting, to the effect that in line with precedence, the names of incumbent Speaker Among and deputy speaker Tayebwa shall be forwarded to the NRM Parliamentary Caucus for their adoption as candidates of the party on the floor of Parliament. Any issuers that arise shall be addressed on merit,” read the resolution.

Among and Tayebwa, were among others credited for supporting the NRM to win the 2026 elections. CEC members observed that Among traversed the whole country, mobilising support for the party chairman, party candidates and also helped the party raise finances.

“CEC notes with great satisfaction, the increase in electoral performance from the entire country, and at all levels of government,” the resolution read in part.

CEC sources who spoke to New Vision said the decision was informed by what members described as the “unwavering loyalty” demonstrated by both Among and Tayebwa to the party and its leadership. They cited the duo’s active role in campaigning across the country during the recently concluded elections, contributing to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) victory.

According to the sources, CEC considered the working relationship between Parliament and the Executive under their stewardship, noting that a significant number of government Bills were processed and passed during their tenure.

The cohesion within the House and what members termed as consistent support to the government’s legislative agenda were also highlighted among the key factors behind the endorsement.

Kabanda's letter sent out to all PLU-leaning MPs reads: 

All PLU Affiliated MPs - Elect

12th Parliament

Dear Honourable Members - Elect,

RE: CONGRATULATIONS AND GUIDANCE ON THE SPEAKERSHIP RACE.

Congratulations on your successful election to the 12th Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

Your victory reflects the trust and confidence that your electorates have in your abilities and competencies.

I urge you to uphold principles dear to the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), which include; patriotism, integrity, transformation and Socio-Economic Development.

In the spirit of "Tuko Pamoja", the Chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda, Gen. Muhoozi Keinerugaba, has guided that PLU leaning Honourable Members - Elect should support the candidates who have been endorsed by the Central Executive Committee of the NRM i.e. Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among and Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker, respectively, for the 12th Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

This decision has been informed by the Tuko Pamoja principle and duo's experience and commitment in guiding Parliamentary Debate and steering the legislature.

The Leadership of the Patriotic League of Uganda appeals to you to maintain decorum, dignity and discipline during the selection process of these important leaders.

Once again, congratulations, and best wishes in the important tasks ahead. 

DAVID KABANDA, MP

GENERAL SECRETARY