As the political contest for leadership of Uganda’s 12th Parliament continues to gather momentum, attention is now shifting to the race for Deputy Speaker following reports that the National Resistance Movement is fronting Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth for the position of Speaker of Parliament.

This afternoon, the Member of Parliament for Mwenge South, Hon. Mary Kamuli Kuteesa, officially declared her interest in contesting for the position of Deputy Speaker.

Hon. Mary Kamuli Kuteesa made the announcement before party members, supporters, and fellow legislators, becoming one of the latest leaders to openly express interest in the top parliamentary position ahead of 25th May 2025 which will be the fist sitting of the 12th parliament.

During her declaration, Kuteesa said she seeks to promote what she described as “Godly politics” focused on transforming Uganda through responsible leadership, service, and accountability.

Kuteesa highlighted her legal and public service background, noting that she brings nearly two decades of experience working in different government institutions and legal offices.

She explained that her professional journey included serving as a State Attorney in the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, working in different departments at the Uganda Revenue Authority, and later serving at the Uganda National Roads Authority before joining active politics.

The legislator further emphasized the need for transparent leadership, effective corporate governance, and stronger representation of women in leadership spaces, saying Parliament requires leaders who can unite members while advancing national transformation.

Kuteesa also praised the leadership of the National Resistance Movement party and reaffirmed her loyalty to the party’s structures and decisions.

She clarified that her declaration was intended to formally communicate her readiness to serve at a higher level following what she described as years of mentorship and leadership growth within the party.

However, she stressed that should the party choose another candidate for the position, she would fully support whoever is endorsed by the NRM.

Several legislators allied to the ruling party immediately endorsed her candidature, describing her as experienced, disciplined, and capable of serving effectively in the Deputy Speaker’s office.

Among those who publicly backed her bid were Hon. Joseph Mugenyi Ateenyi, the Member of Parliament for Burahya County, Sarah Kabalokole, the Woman Member of Parliament for Bunyangabu District, Kasukaali Methusela, the Member of Parliament for Mwenge Central, and Hon. Mulindwa David Isimbwa, the Member of Parliament for Busongora South.

The legislators called upon the NRM leadership and party chairperson to consider endorsing Kuteesa for the Deputy Speakership position, arguing that her leadership experience and professional background make her suitable for the role.

Meanwhile, some NRM-leaning legislators associated with the Patriotic League of Uganda also joined voices in support of Kuteesa, describing her candidature as part of what they termed a “winning team” for the 12th Parliament leadership.

With the race for both Speaker and Deputy Speaker steadily taking shape, political lobbying within the ruling party is expected to intensify in the coming days as Members of Parliament position themselves ahead of the highly anticipated leadership elections for the 12th Parliament.