Uganda’s Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has officially declared his bid for Speaker of the 12th Parliament of Uganda, confirming that he has concluded a broad consultation process ahead of entering the race.

Addressing the media, Mao stated that he engaged Members of Parliament-elect and other key stakeholders before announcing his decision. He said the consultations gave him confidence to present himself for the position, describing the coming parliamentary term as a significant period for the country’s governance and institutional development.

Mao noted that the next five years will require steady leadership within Parliament, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding democratic processes and strengthening oversight mechanisms. He observed that while Uganda has registered progress in various sectors, continued vigilance is necessary to ensure accountability and responsible use of public office. His remarks focused on the role of Parliament as an independent arm of government tasked with legislation, representation, and oversight.

"The prospect of Norbert Moa becoming Speaker of Parliament has energized the whole country, and the country believes they are getting a safety net in these five years that are critical", Mao said.

The Justice Minister also reflected on the need for leaders and citizens alike not to take stability for granted, encouraging constructive engagement within political parties and across the national spectrum. He highlighted his belief that Parliament must remain responsive to public concerns while operating within constitutional mandates.

Mao returns to active parliamentary politics after two decades. He previously represented Gulu Municipality from 1996 to 2006, where he built a reputation as a vocal legislator. He later served as Gulu LCV Chairman between 2006 and 2011, a period that coincided with post-conflict recovery efforts in Northern Uganda. Since 2010, he has led the Democratic Party (DP) as President General and has contested in presidential elections. In 2022, he was appointed to Cabinet by President Yoweri Museveni as Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

The contest for Speaker of the 12th Parliament features several candidates with diverse leadership backgrounds. Among them is the incumbent Speaker, Anita Annet Among, who has received endorsement from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) caucus. Other contenders include Persis Namuganza and Lydia Wanyoto.

Political observers describe the race as an important milestone for Uganda’s legislative agenda, as the Speaker plays a central role in guiding parliamentary debate, maintaining order in the House, and ensuring adherence to constitutional procedures.

As the 12th Parliament takes shape, attention now turns to how Members of Parliament will decide on their next Speaker, a decision expected to influence the tone and direction of Uganda’s legislative business in the years ahead.