Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among has officially withdrawn from the race for the Speakership of the 12th Parliament, in a dramatic political twist that reshapes the leadership contest within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
In a strongly worded statement posted on her official account, Among said her decision follows “wide consultations and deep introspection,” adding that it was aimed at preserving “harmony and clarity” within the ruling party, the National Resistance Movement.
“I wish to categorically and unequivocally state that I will not be offering myself for the Speakership race of the 12th Parliament,” Among declared.
The announcement effectively removes one of the most influential contenders from the race, narrowing the field for parliamentary leadership at a time of heightened political maneuvering within the new legislature.
Among expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni, the ruling party, and members of the 11th Parliament for what she described as the opportunity to serve as both Deputy Speaker and Speaker over the past five years.
She also pledged allegiance to the party’s final decision on leadership, stating that she would fully support candidates endorsed by the President and the NRM leadership, while urging all Members of Parliament in the 12th Parliament to do the same.
“I pledge my total support to the candidates who will be endorsed by the President and the Party,” she said, signalling a unified front behind the ruling establishment’s preferred candidate.
In a notable political undertone, Among also addressed ongoing scrutiny surrounding her name, stating that she remains committed to cooperating with “ongoing investigations initiated by the relevant organs of the state” to establish the truth behind various allegations.
“I shall remain available to the service of my country as the party and the President may assign me,” she added.
Her statement closes with a pledge of continued loyalty under the banner of national service: “For God and my country.”
The withdrawal sets the stage for an intense internal NRM succession battle as the 12th Parliament takes shape, with attention now turning to who the party and President Museveni will front for one of the most powerful positions in Uganda’s legislature.
