Bukono County Member of Parliament Persis Namuganza has officially withdrawn from the race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, bringing an end to weeks of speculation over her political ambitions for the top parliamentary office.
In a statement addressed to the nation, Namuganza said she had taken the decision peacefully and would now support candidates endorsed by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
“With eternal gratitude, loyalty and patriotism, I wish to inform the entire nation that I have officially withdrawn from the race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament,” she announced.
She confirmed her full support for Jacob Marksons Oboth and former Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who were endorsed by the NRM for key leadership positions in Parliament.
“I fully and wholeheartedly rally behind the candidates selected today by the NRM,” she said.
Namuganza expressed appreciation for the support she received throughout her campaign, describing it as overwhelming and humbling.
“From the villages of Bukono to every corner of our beautiful motherland, your love, prayers and encouragement have been a source of immense strength and inspiration,” she said. “I am forever grateful and deeply humbled. May the Almighty God bless each and every one of you abundantly.”
She extended congratulations to the endorsed candidates, urging them to uphold integrity, wisdom, and effective leadership in their service to the nation.
“I extend my warmest congratulations to my colleagues Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth and Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. I wish you wisdom, integrity and success,” she stated.
Namuganza also called for national unity and urged citizens to rally behind President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as the country prepares for the next phase of parliamentary leadership.
“Let us now unite as one people behind the leadership of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa and work together for the good of Uganda,” she said.
Her withdrawal comes as the NRM consolidates internal consensus ahead of the election of the leadership of the 12th Parliament.
