Bukono County MP, Persis Namuganza has stepped down from the contest for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament, ending weeks of political speculation surrounding her ambitions for the top parliamentary seat.
In a message addressed to the nation, the Bukono County legislator said she had made the decision peacefully and would now support the candidates endorsed by the 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“With eternal gratitude, loyalty and patriotism, I wish to inform the entire nation that I have officially withdrawn from the race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament,” Namuganza announced.
The outspoken legislator pledged her support for Jacob Marksons Oboth and Thomas Tayebwa following their endorsement by the ruling party.
“I fully and wholeheartedly rally behind the candidates selected today by the NRM,” she said.
Namuganza described the support she received from Ugandans during her campaign as overwhelming and deeply touching.
“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 also congratulated the newly endorsed candidates and urged them to serve with integrity and wisdom.
“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 further appealed for national unity and support for the leadership of Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
“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 ruling party consolidates support ahead of the election of parliamentary leadership for the 12th Parliament.
