Justice Minister Norbert Mao has once again taken center stage. This time, instead of the courtroom battles and striking political deals with the ruling NRM Party that marked his past, Mao exchanged vows with his new bride, Beatrice Nambi, at St. Joseph Cathedral in Gulu City. And boy, was it a show.
The main act was blessed by Archbishop John Baptist Odama of Gulu Archdiocese. One can only wonder if he prayed for peace or just strength to get through the spectacle.
Joining the happy couple at the altar were none other than the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, and his wife, Anita. These two have clearly found a side hustle as professional wedding attendants, having previously played the same roles at Mao’s engagement in Wakiso.
The Judiciary, never one to miss out on a bit of fun, sent Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo and Deputy Justice Richard Buteera. It seems the only thing more exciting than a court case is a Mao wedding.
Of course, what’s a political wedding without the guest list from the Cabinet? Chief Whip Denis Hamson Obua and Deputy Attorney General Jackson Karugaba Kafuuzi showed up, probably hoping the food would be better than at the last state function.
Mao, the supreme chief of the Democratic Party, made sure his political buddies were there too. After all, why keep your drama confined to the courtroom?
This wedding marks a new chapter for Mao, who previously divorced Naomi Achieng Odongo in a very public and messy split in 2019. Their 16-year marriage ended with allegations of cruelty that the judge tossed out faster than an expired mandazi. The court declared the marriage “irretrievably broken,” which might be legal speak for “we’re all tired of this soap opera.”
Mao retained custody of their sons and got to keep the swanky property in Ntinda. Achieng got her share of the spoils, and off they went on their separate ways.
Fast forward to June 1, 2024, and here’s Mao, signing his life away (again) at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, with Beatrice gazing adoringly. Love, politics, and a sprinkle of judicial flair—Uganda never disappoints!
And so, in true Ugandan fashion, we at The Ankole Times raise a glass to Norbert Mao and his bride. Here’s hoping their sequel has fewer plot twists and more happy endings.
