Aringa South County MP Alioni Yorke Odria has declared his intention to contest for the position of Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament.

Speaking at a press conference in Kampala, Odria cited his 10 years of legislative experience and a third-term mandate as qualifications to challenge the incumbent, Anita Among.

He dismissed claims that the NRM Central Executive Committee had endorsed the current Speaker and her deputy, insisting he is ready to vie for the position.

Odria pledged to be guided by the Constitution and Parliament’s Rules of Procedure, urged incoming MPs to reject bribery during the Speaker election, and promised to enforce quorum requirements before conducting parliamentary business.

He also committed to subjecting Parliament to scrutiny by the Auditor General to enhance accountability and public trust.

The race for the Speaker’s seat is gaining momentum. Other declared candidates include Lydia Wanyoto, the Mbale City Woman MP-elect; State Minister for Housing Persis Namuganza; and Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao, all of whom aim to unseat Anita Among, the current Speaker.

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