Support for Hon. Norbert Mao for the Speakership seems to be growing, even among local communities that do not vote for the Speaker.
Two weeks ago, a group of Karimojong elders from Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto, and Nakapiripirit held parallel prayers on various hills, asking God to touch the hearts of the newly elected MPs so that they can elect a new Speaker who will not watch as items meant for Karamoja are diverted again, as was the case with the iron sheets scandal.
Kaabong elders went to Morungole Hill, Kotido elders went to the Loyoro Hills, Moroto elders went to Ilipas Forest in Tepeth, while those in Nakapiripirit went to the slopes of Mount Locupae.
It is yet to be proven whether their prayers will touch the hearts of the newly elected Members of Parliament to vote for a new Speaker.
It should be noted that the Speakership race has attracted a large number of candidates, including Hon. Lydia Wanyoto, Hon. Persis Namuganza, Hon. Alionzi, Hon. Norbert Mao, and the incumbent Speaker, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among.
However, the hottest contest appears to be between Hon. Norbert Mao and Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among.
Currently, many people across the country see Norbert Mao as likely to take the Speakership due to his groundwork and mobilization.
Last week, a section of Teso elders also convened prayers, this time calling upon God to favour Hon. Norbert Mao and help him win the seat.
They also claimed that President Museveni has given the Iteso many top positions in government, but they are not seeing the expected impact.
How these prayers will influence events will become clearer after the swearing-in of President Museveni next week. End.
The writer is a senior veteran journalist.
