Kampala – The race to determine who will steer Uganda’s 12th Parliament is gaining momentum, with Gomba West legislator Robinah Rwakoojo officially entering the contest for Deputy Speaker.

Her entry into the race comes amid growing political uncertainty following reports of strained ties between Speaker Anita Annet Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who had earlier been endorsed by the NRM Central Executive Committee for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker respectively.

In a telephone interview with our reporter, Rwakoojo confirmed that she has officially thrown her hat into the ring for the Deputy Speaker position.

Her entry is expected to intensify the contest, with political analysts already describing her as a strong contender capable of shaking up the race ahead of the formation of the 12th Parliament.

Rwakoojo, a seasoned lawyer and Advocate of the Courts of Judicature, is increasingly being fronted by supporters and political allies as a competent and disciplined leader capable of steering Parliament with professionalism and deep legal expertise.

Her distinguished public service career spans more than 20 years in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, where she rose through the ranks to become Acting Director of Civil Litigation before joining active politics.

After entering Parliament during the 10th Parliament, she served as Deputy Chairperson of the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee for three years. In the 11th Parliament, she later became Chairperson of the same committee, overseeing key constitutional and legal matters in the House.

Political observers argue that her extensive legal background and parliamentary experience place her among the strongest candidates so far eyeing the Deputy Speaker position.

Analysts also point to the regional political balance factor, noting that Rwakoojo hails from Gomba in the Buganda region, a factor some believe could influence power-sharing considerations in the next government setup.

Sources close to her camp say Rwakoojo fully understands parliamentary procedures, rules of debate, and legislative processes—qualities considered essential for presiding over the August House.

“She possesses the legal knowledge, calmness, and determination needed to guide Parliament effectively,” one of her supporters said.

Known for her composed leadership style and firm grasp of constitutional affairs, Rwakoojo is also described by allies as God-fearing, disciplined, and focused—traits they say make her suitable for one of the country’s top parliamentary offices.

Her growing endorsement now sets the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched leadership battles in Uganda’s 12th Parliament.

The development comes shortly after the endorsement of West Budama North East MP Jacob Oboth Oboth for Speakership by the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), and they didn’t disclose who would be seconded as Deputy.