Anita Annet Among has withdrawn from the race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, in a move likely to consolidate the ruling National Resistance Movement’s efforts to avoid an internal contest ahead of the new parliamentary term.
In a statement released late Sunday, Among said she would not seek re-election as Speaker after what she described as “wide consultations and deep introspection,” pledging allegiance to candidates endorsed by President Yoweri Museveni and the ruling party.
The announcement signals a significant political shift for one of Uganda’s most influential lawmakers, who has served as both Deputy Speaker and Speaker during the 11th Parliament. Her decision comes amid heightened political maneuvering within the governing party as legislators position themselves for leadership roles in the next parliamentary session.
“I wish to categorically and unequivocally state that I will not be offering myself for the Speakership race of the 12th Parliament,” Among said.
The statement also appeared aimed at containing divisions within the NRM, with Among urging Members of Parliament to rally behind the party’s eventual choice for Speaker.
The move could ease tensions within the ruling establishment and reinforce President Museveni’s influence over succession and parliamentary leadership decisions.
Among additionally addressed ongoing state investigations into allegations that have recently surrounded her tenure, saying she would continue cooperating with authorities “to get to the root of all the allegations raised.”
The Speaker did not specify the nature of the investigations, though the remarks mark one of her clearest public acknowledgments of mounting scrutiny around her office and political standing.
Her withdrawal leaves the race for Speaker increasingly dependent on endorsements from the NRM leadership, which traditionally plays a decisive role in determining top parliamentary positions.
Among said she remains available for future national service “as the party and the President may assign.”
The development reshapes power dynamics within Uganda’s legislature ahead of the inauguration of the 12th Parliament.