Bukono County MP Princess Persis Namuganza has formally written to NRM National Chairman Yoweri Museveni expressing interest in contesting for the position of Speaker of the 12th Parliament.
In a letter dated May 22, 2026 and addressed to Museveni, the NRM Electoral Commission and the party Secretary General, Namuganza asked the ruling party leadership to consider her candidature despite being elected to Parliament as an Independent MP.
The outspoken legislator described herself as “NRM-leaning and fully supportive” of the ruling party’s ideals and leadership, saying she had actively participated in legislative processes, national policy discussions and mobilisation efforts aimed at strengthening democracy and unity in Uganda.
Namuganza also referenced the recent NRM retreat at Kyankwanzi where Independent MPs aligned to the party were welcomed to participate in party activities.
“It is therefore from that spirit of the party chairman, that I respectfully express my interest in standing for the position of Speaker of the 12th Parliament,” she wrote.
Her expression of interest emerged as NRM MPs on Saturday formally submitted bids to contest for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament at the party Electoral Commission offices in Kampala.
Among those who expressed interest in the Speaker race are West Budama Central MP Jacob Oboth-Oboth, Masindi District Woman MP Florence Asiimwe Akiiki and Aringa South MP Alioni Yorke Odria.
The Deputy Speaker race attracted several contenders including Terego Woman MP Rose Obigah, Oyam South MP Patrick Obura Ogwang, Ruhinda North MP Thomas Tayebwa, Mwenge South MP Mary Kamuli Kuteesa and Rukungiri Municipality MP Gen. Henry Tumukunde.
Key decisions on the party flag bearers for the top parliamentary positions are expected tomorrow when the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) and the party parliamentary caucus meet at State House Entebbe.
