Namuganza: Why I’m Running for Speaker

Bukono County MP Persis Namuganza has outlined her motivation for seeking the position of Speaker of the 12th Parliament, saying her bid is driven by a vision to restore unity, discipline and public trust in Uganda’s legislature.

In a statement issued on Thursday, February 19, 2026, Namuganza said her candidature is anchored on strengthening Parliament as an institution that commands respect both nationally and internationally.

“Guided by a vision of unity, progress, and justice, I am committed to ensuring every Member of Parliament is respected, restoring discipline to make our House a beacon of order, enhancing transparency, upholding ethical standards, modernizing procedures, and aligning with international best practices for efficient debates, accountability, and public trust,” Namuganza said.

The Bukono MP is one of three politicians who have so far publicly expressed interest in the powerful Speaker’s seat, alongside incumbent Speaker Anita Among and Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao. With the 12th Parliament set to convene soon, contenders have begun positioning themselves to rally support among Members of Parliament.

Namuganza, who is running as an Independent, has dismissed claims that the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has already settled on a preferred candidate.

Speaking on Wednesday, she said reports of endorsements do not concern her.

“I have very many friends in NRM. Let nobody deceive you that NRM has already chosen the Speaker of Parliament. Who speaks into people’s hearts? Ugandans have seen it all. They have seen an embarrassing Parliament which reduced the image of the country to below average,” Namuganza said.

Namuganza has in recent months emphasized her legal background and experience in public service as key strengths she believes position her to preside over parliamentary business with fairness, order and respect for the law, as competition for the speakership of the 12th Parliament intensifies.