By Our Reporter 

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has publicly endorsed State Minister for Defence Jacob Oboth Oboth for the position of Speaker of Parliament in the upcoming 12th Parliament, declaring that there is “no Speakership battle.”

The outspoken military commander made the remarks through a series of posts on X, formerly Twitter, where he signaled strong backing for Oboth Oboth ahead of the anticipated parliamentary leadership contest for the 2026–2031 term.

“There is no Speakership battle. Our God Jesus Christ won that battle a long time ago. We already have our new Speaker. Supported by UPDF!” Muhoozi posted.

The endorsement is expected to intensify political discussions within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), where different camps are already positioning themselves ahead of the next parliamentary term.

Oboth Oboth, who represents West Budama County South in Parliament, served as State Minister for Defence in charge of General Duties. Muhoozi described him as one of the best-performing ministers in government.

“He has been the best Minister in our government for the past 5 years. I want to be the first to endorse him for Speaker of Parliament (2026–2031). God bless Hon. Oboth-Oboth!” he added.

Before revealing the identity of his preferred candidate, Muhoozi had hinted that a decision on the next Speaker had already been reached.

“We have already made our decision on the new Speaker (a man). Men were born to lead. That’s the natural order of things,” he posted.

The remarks have since sparked widespread debate across political and social circles, with some observers interpreting them as a sign of growing influence by the military-linked political establishment in Uganda’s parliamentary affairs.

Muhoozi also commented on Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, describing him as a close ally despite reports that the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) had withdrawn support for the current parliamentary leadership.

“Hon. Tayebwa is a very good man. He is my younger brother. He has no problems. He is protected!” Muhoozi wrote.

However, some of the CDF’s statements have drawn criticism and concern from sections of the public, especially after he warned those opposed to decisions made by his political camp.

“Those who do not accept our decisions risk arrest!” he stated in another post.

Political analysts say the developments could signal shifting alliances within the NRM as the race for key parliamentary offices begins to take shape ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Muhoozi concluded his online remarks with another statement directed at critics questioning his political influence.

“Those who doubt my power in my country. Try me now and find out,” he posted.

With political temperatures continuing to rise, the battle for the Speakership of Uganda’s 12th Parliament is increasingly attracting national attention and is expected to remain a major topic in the country’s political discourse in the months ahead.