The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has said he is increasingly being encouraged to contest for the position of Speaker of Parliament, but stressed that he has not yet made a formal declaration.
Addressing the media at a press conference on Tuesday, Mao dismissed reports suggesting that he had already joined the race for the speakership, describing them as inaccurate. He said the claims circulating in the media did not originate from him.
“I want to be clear that I am not the source of those reports,” Mao said, adding that he has never hesitated to publicly announce any position he intends to contest.
Mao noted that whenever his name is mentioned in connection with the Speaker’s position, it has been met with positive feedback.
“There is a lot of goodwill when my name is associated with that office,” he said, adding that he personally feels the public support during his interactions with people.
The Laroo–Péce Division Member of Parliament–elect for Gulu City said he believes he possesses the experience, qualifications and leadership capacity required to preside over Parliament. However, he emphasised that he is still consulting widely before making a final decision.
He revealed that his consultations will include engagements with the leadership of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), including President Yoweri Museveni, to openly discuss the future leadership of Parliament.
Mao’s comments come shortly after the NRM Central Executive Committee endorsed Anita Annet Among for the position of Speaker and Thomas Tayebwa as Deputy Speaker following a meeting at State House, Entebbe.
