KAMPALA – Democratic Party (DP) President and Justice Minister Norbert Mao has publicly released a letter he wrote to President Yoweri Museveni formally requesting to be considered for the position of Speaker of the 12th Parliament. In the letter, Mao appeals to the 'spirit of 1986,' referencing the National Resistance Movement's (NRM) founding principles of unity and transformation.
Mao, who serves as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs in Museveni's cabinet, argues that his candidacy would strengthen the ruling coalition and promote national reconciliation. The letter, dated May 2026, was shared on social media and has sparked debate among political analysts about the DP's alignment with the NRM.
The 12th Parliament is expected to be sworn in after the 2026 general elections, with the Speaker position being a key leadership role. Current Speaker Anita Among has not publicly commented on Mao's bid. Political observers note that Mao's request is unusual given his party's historical opposition to Museveni's government.
Mao's letter emphasizes the need for a 'unifying figure' to lead Parliament, citing his experience as a lawyer and former presidential candidate. He also references the 1985 Nairobi Peace Accords, which ended the Ugandan Bush War and led to the NRM's rise to power in 1986.
