Norbert Mao has openly aligned himself with growing criticism against the current leadership of Parliament, throwing his weight behind the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU)’s decision to withdraw support for Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa ahead of the 12th Parliament leadership race.
Speaking moments after taking oath as Member of Parliament for Laroo-Pece Division in Gulu City on Thursday, Mao described the PLU’s move as a necessary statement against corruption and accused the current Parliament leadership of contributing to declining public trust in the institution.
“You cannot claim to fight malaria while protecting mosquitoes,” Mao remarked while addressing journalists, in comments widely interpreted as a direct attack on leaders seeking re-election to Parliament’s top offices.
Mao praised the PLU, a political pressure group associated with Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for what he called consistency in confronting corruption.
“The PLU has taken a clear stand. Fighting corruption means refusing to defend the corrupt,” Mao said.
His remarks introduce fresh tension into an already competitive contest for Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions, where political alliances within the ruling National Resistance Movement continue to shift ahead of internal voting later this month.
The PLU had initially endorsed Among and Tayebwa for second terms, but this week reversed its position and instructed supporters to align with guidance expected from President Yoweri Museveni and the NRM Central Executive Committee.
The reversal followed a series of social media posts by Muhoozi questioning the source of wealth displayed by some Ugandan politicians, particularly their ownership of luxury vehicles. Although he did not directly mention Among, the comments sparked speculation that the Speaker was among those being targeted.
In the posts, Muhoozi argued that Uganda could not afford leadership associated with unexplained wealth and extravagant lifestyles at a time when ordinary citizens continue to struggle economically.
Political insiders now suggest Mao’s renewed bid for a senior parliamentary office could be receiving quiet backing from influential figures within the First Family, including Gen. Salim Saleh and Muhoozi himself.
Mao and Among have both previously held meetings with Gen. Saleh at his well-known base in Gulu, while Among was this week seen in conversation with Muhoozi during activities surrounding Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony at Kololo.
During Thursday’s event, Mao sought to present himself as a reform-minded legislator committed to rebuilding public confidence in Parliament and strengthening accountability mechanisms within the House.
“We are supposed to be watchdogs, but watchdogs must also be watched,” Mao said. “Many citizens now believe Parliament acts without restraint and beyond scrutiny.”
Using the example of old and new currency notes, Mao argued that all Ugandans should receive equal treatment regardless of status or political influence.
“A new 10,000-shilling note and an old torn one carry the same value. In the same way, every Ugandan deserves equal respect and justice,” he stated.
Mao also proposed the formation of what he called a “caucus of the whole House,” a non-partisan platform aimed at helping MPs address national concerns collectively rather than through party divisions.
“There are national problems that go beyond political parties,” Mao said. “Parliament should focus on solutions that benefit Uganda regardless of who presents them.”
Under Article 82 of the Constitution, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected by Members of Parliament from among persons qualified to serve as MPs, although serving Cabinet ministers are barred from occupying the offices.
As Uganda’s 12th Parliament prepares for its first major sitting, the race for parliamentary leadership is increasingly emerging as a broader struggle over influence, accountability, and the future direction of the Legislature.
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