PLU Withdraws Endorsement for Anita Among and Thomas Tayebwa

In a move that has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s political landscape, the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) has officially rescinded its endorsement of Speaker Anita Among and her deputy, Thomas Tayebwa, for the leadership of the 12th Parliament.

The sudden reversal, announced late Tuesday, May 12, 2026, marks a significant departure from the organization’s previous stance and introduces fresh uncertainty into a race that many had considered settled.

The withdrawal was formalized in a statement issued by PLU General Secretary Daudi Kabanda, who revealed that the organization’s chairperson, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, had directed the retraction. This new guidance effectively cancels the March 11, 2026, directive where PLU-leaning Members of Parliament-elect were instructed to back the incumbent duo.

According to Kabanda, the Patriotic League now expects its members to follow the command and instructions of General Muhoozi at all times, signaling a tactical pivot in their legislative strategy.

Under the updated guidance, PLU-affiliated legislators have been instructed to wait for and support the specific candidates that will be presented to them by President Yoweri Museveni. This development is particularly notable because it appears to bypass the February 20 resolution by the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC), which had originally recommended that Among and Tayebwa retain their respective seats.

By deferring directly to the President’s final selection, the PLU is positioning itself as a decisive power broker that prioritizes the Chairman’s ultimate word over earlier party recommendations.

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Political analysts suggest this move could open the door for other contenders who have been quietly mobilizing despite the initial CEC endorsement. The speakership race has already attracted interest from several high-profile figures, including Justice Minister Norbert Mao, State Minister Persis Namuganza, and Aringa South legislator Alioni Yorke Odria.

While the incumbents were credited with steering the 11th Parliament through critical government business and securing significant electoral gains for the NRM, the PLU’s retraction suggests that the political calculus for the next term is far from finalized.

As the swearing-in of the 12th Parliament approaches later this month, the focus now shifts to State House. The PLU statement emphasized the principle of unity—Tuko Pamoja—noting that the leadership of the organization appeals for decorum and discipline during this selection process.

For Anita Among and Thomas Tayebwa, the loss of a formal endorsement from the influential Muhoozi-led league adds a layer of complexity to their bid for a second term, turning the eyes of the nation toward the President’s upcoming guidance.