Speakership Battle: Pressure Mounts Within NRM Over Gender Balance In 12th Parliament Leadership

By Swift Reporter 

Behind closed doors at the National Resistance Movement, discussions surrounding the leadership of the incoming 12th Parliament are beginning to expose deeper tensions over recognition, political loyalty, and the place of women within the party’s top decision-making structures. As lobbying intensifies among different camps, a section of NRM supporters is increasingly pushing for Mbale City Woman MP Lydia Wanyoto Mutende to be considered for the position of Deputy Speaker.

A section of NRM mobilizers and women leaders now argue that the Deputy Speakership should be reserved for a female candidate, especially if the Speakership goes to a male legislator as widely speculated.

According to party supporters, maintaining gender balance in Parliament’s top leadership would reinforce the NRM’s long-standing position on inclusive governance and women’s participation in national decision-making.

Gender Balance Is Crucial 

Some women league officials have also questioned what they describe as selective scrutiny of leaders linked to controversies surrounding Parliament, arguing that fairness should apply equally to all officials mentioned in public debate.

To them, the current conversation goes beyond individuals and instead reflects how the party rewards commitment and protects long-serving cadres who have remained active in mobilization efforts.

Wanyoto’s Mobilization Efforts Highlighted

Supporters point to Lydia Wanyoto’s visible role in recent NRM activities across the country, saying she has been among the key figures rallying grassroots support for President Yoweri Museveni ahead of the 2026 general elections.

They say her involvement in party mobilization structures, especially among women and youth groups, has strengthened the NRM’s visibility in several regions at a critical political moment.

“Leaders who sacrifice for the party during difficult moments should also be recognized when opportunities arise,” said one mobilizer from eastern Uganda.

Others argue that Wanyoto’s consistency within the party ranks distinguishes her from many politicians who only become active during election periods.

Beyond party mobilization, Wanyoto’s backers cite her extensive public service background as one of her strongest qualifications for higher parliamentary office.

Over the years, she has served in several regional and international assignments, including leadership roles within the African Union mission structures. She also previously represented Uganda in the East African Legislative Assembly before joining Parliament as Mbale City Woman MP.

Her supporters further note that her academic background in law, gender studies, and human rights gives her both administrative and legislative grounding suited for presiding over parliamentary business.

Political analysts say the growing lobbying around the Deputy Speaker position reflects wider internal conversations within the NRM about succession planning, reward systems, and maintaining party cohesion ahead of 2026.

Within party circles, some members believe the next parliamentary leadership team should project renewal while still retaining experienced cadres capable of defending government positions both locally and internationally.

Others insist that loyalty to the party and direct contribution to grassroots mobilization should carry significant weight in determining who occupies top offices in the next Parliament.

Museveni Expected to Play Key Role

As consultations continue behind closed doors, attention is now turning to President Museveni, who traditionally plays a central role in guiding consensus within the party on sensitive leadership positions.

For supporters backing Lydia Wanyoto, the expectation is that the party chairman will consider experience, loyalty, and gender representation before the final decisions are made.

Whether the NRM ultimately opts for continuity or a fresh face in the Deputy Speaker’s office, the ongoing debate has already exposed the competing interests shaping the party’s preparations for the next parliamentary term.