MP Mwiru Launches Bid for Speaker of Parliament
Paul Mwiru, the Member of Parliament for Jinja South East Constituency, has officially launched his bid for the position of Speaker of Parliament after receiving endorsement from the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Mwiru unveiled his manifesto on Friday at the party’s headquarters in Makerere Kavule, outlining a leadership agenda centered on strengthening parliamentary democracy and restoring public confidence in the legislature.
According to Mwiru, his candidature is anchored on four key pillars: restoration of the rule of law in Parliament, equity and inclusivity for all Members of Parliament and citizens, responsiveness to the aspirations of Ugandans, and competent, exemplary, and accountable leadership.
“I pledge to uphold parliamentary integrity, protect democratic processes, and serve every Ugandan with fairness and dedication. I ask for your support and prayers as we work together to strengthen our Parliament and deepen democracy,” Mwiru said during the launch.
His declaration comes at a time of heightened political activity ahead of the parliamentary leadership elections scheduled for Monday, May 25.
As Mwiru launched his bid, Yoweri Museveni had convened NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting at State House , Entebbe amid growing political maneuvering within the party.
The high-level meeting is expected to deliberate on and endorse the party’s flag bearers for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker. The selected candidates will later be presented to the NRM Parliamentary Caucus, which is expected to meet on Sunday, May 24, for further discussions and endorsement ahead of the vote.
The Speakership race has intensified in recent days, with various political groups and factions positioning preferred candidates for the influential role.
Recently, the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) endorsed Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth for Speaker and incumbent Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker.
The endorsement followed the PLU’s withdrawal of support from former Speaker Anita Among, who has recently faced mounting pressure over ongoing investigations into alleged illicit enrichment and money laundering.
Among has since stepped back from actively campaigning for the Speakership after the investigations were launched ahead of next week’s elections.
Now Mwiru’s entry into the Speakership race adds a new dimension to the contest for Uganda’s top parliamentary seat at a time of heightened political tension and shifting alliances.
With parties and political groups intensifying consultations ahead of the elections, the coming days are expected to shape the future leadership of Parliament.
