In a move that has quickly drawn national attention, Bushenyi–Ishaka MP-elect Hajji Iddi Basajjabalaba has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of Deputy Speaker of Parliament for the 2026–2031 term.
The announcement places Hajji Iddi among the emerging leaders positioning themselves for top parliamentary leadership as the 11th Parliament takes shape. Known for his calm approach and growing influence within political and business circles, his bid signals a generational shift and a renewed push for inclusive, development-oriented leadership in Parliament.
Hajji Iddi Basajjabalaba is the son of Al Hajj Hassan Basajjabalaba, a prominent businessman and a key figure within the NRM Entrepreneurs League. This background has fueled expectations that he will bring a strong private-sector perspective to parliamentary leadership, particularly on issues of economic empowerment, investment, and youth participation in governance.
He joins the race for a seat currently held by Ruhinda North MP Thomas Tayebwa, who was elected Deputy Speaker in 2022 and has since played a central role in steering parliamentary business. With Tayebwa’s tenure setting a high benchmark, the contest is expected to be closely watched both within the ruling party and across the wider political spectrum.
As consultations intensify ahead of the new Parliament, Hajji Iddi’s declaration adds momentum to early leadership contests and underscores the growing competition for influential positions in Uganda’s legislative arm. The coming months are likely to reveal alliances, strategies, and debates that will shape the direction of Parliament from 2026 to 2
031.
