Norbert Mao welcomed the decision by the Patriotic League of Uganda to withdraw its support for Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa.

This shift in political backing alters the dynamics of the leadership race for the 12th Parliament [1]. The move follows a period of shifting alliances within the country's ruling political circles as aspirants vie for the influential speakership position.

The withdrawal of support by the PLU comes after Gen. Muhoozi revoked his endorsement of the current leadership on March 11, 2026 [2]. Mao, an aspirant for the Speaker position, said he approved of the party's decision to distance itself from Among and Tayebwa [1].

The political landscape in Kampala has become increasingly volatile as candidates seek to consolidate power within the legislative body. The speakership is a critical role that manages the flow of legislation and maintains parliamentary order, often symbolized by the five-foot-long ceremonial mace [3].

While the PLU has officially moved away from the incumbents, the internal mechanics of how this affects the voting bloc for the 12th Parliament [1] remain a central point of contention among lawmakers. Mao's alignment with the PLU's decision suggests a strategic attempt to isolate the current leadership before the next cycle of elections.

“Norbert Mao welcomed the decision by the Patriotic League of Uganda to withdraw its support”

The withdrawal of support from the Patriotic League of Uganda, triggered by Gen. Muhoozi's earlier revocation of endorsement, signals a weakening of Speaker Anita Among's political coalition. By welcoming this move, Norbert Mao is positioning himself as a viable alternative for the 12th Parliament, leveraging the PLU's shift to challenge the established leadership hierarchy in Kampala.