The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) has officially withdrawn its earlier endorsement of Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among for Speaker and Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament, signaling a major shift ahead of parliamentary leadership elections.
In a press statement dated 12th May 2026 and signed by PLU General Secretary David Kabanda, MP, the organization said the endorsement issued on 11th March 2026 had been “retracted and withdrawn with immediate effect” following fresh guidance from PLU Chairman Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
According to the statement, Gen. Kainerugaba directed that all PLU-leaning Members of Parliament-elect should instead support candidates who will officially be presented by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions.
The development is expected to heighten political negotiations within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and among legislators ahead of the opening of the 12th Parliament. Analysts say the move aims to consolidate unity within government ranks and align the league’s position with that of the party leadership and the Head of State.
The statement emphasized that PLU members are expected to follow the command, instructions, and guidance of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba at all times, underscoring his growing influence within the organization and Uganda’s political landscape.
The withdrawal comes at a sensitive time as consultations on parliamentary leadership intensify. Both Among and Tayebwa have held the top offices in the current Parliament.
Observers say the PLU’s directive could reshape political calculations among MPs-elect, particularly those affiliated with the movement, and raises questions about who will emerge as President Museveni’s preferred candidates for the top parliamentary offices.
The PLU, which has gained visibility as a mobilization platform promoting patriotism and support for government programs under Gen. Kainerugaba, now awaits official communication from State House and NRM structures on the leadership of the 12th Parliament.
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