Tensions are rising within the ruling National Resistance Movement party just days before the 12th Parliament is set to elect the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. A dispute over the party's nomination process has led a faction of NRM members to take legal action.
The NRM parliamentary caucus has officially endorsed the current Speaker, Annet Anita Among, and her Deputy, Thomas Tayebwa, to retain their leadership positions in the 12th Parliament. The party's decision has been met with widespread approval from many NRM legislators who have publicly expressed their solidarity and support for the duo's return to leadership.
However, this consensus within the party has sparked a backlash from a breakaway group. A faction calling itself the NRM Revolutionary Network has filed a petition in court, challenging the process that led to the endorsement of Speaker Among and Deputy Speaker Tayebwa.
Speaking to the press, Jude Mugaga, a leader of the group that has sought legal recourse, clarified their position. He stated they are not challenging the individual qualifications or leadership of Ms. Among or Mr. Tayebwa personally. Instead, he emphasized that their grievance is with the process itself, which they argue did not adhere to the NRM's own constitution and regulations.
"What we are saying as supporters of the NRM is that we want the process of electing a flag bearer for the party to be transparent and thorough. Any person who expresses interest in the position of Speaker should be given the opportunity to present their case. Only after that should the party delegates in Parliament, our 'Kabondo,' make an informed decision on who to endorse."
Peter Kivumbi, another member of the faction, provided historical context, noting that the NRM, which evolved from the NRA, has historically elected Speakers through a lawful process dating back to the 6th Parliament. He questioned why the party would deviate from its own established and lawful practices now.
The group is questioning what they perceive as a failure by the party leadership to follow its own democratic principles, especially given the NRM's role as the ruling party that should champion fairness and justice in all state organs, including Parliament.
As the current 11th Parliament winds down and is set to be dissolved in May, the stage is being set for the 12th Parliament. The new MPs will soon have the crucial task of electing the Speaker and Deputy Speaker who will preside over the affairs of the legislature for the next term. This court challenge adds an element of uncertainty to what was expected to be a routine political process.
