Former Speaker of the 11th Parliament Anita Annet Among has withdrawn from the race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament, saying the decision followed wide consultations and deep introspection aimed at maintaining harmony within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
In a statement released on Sunday night, Among said she would not offer herself for the Speakership contest and pledged support to candidates who will be endorsed by President Yoweri Museveni and the NRM party.
“I wish to categorically and unequivocally state that I will not be offering myself for the Speakership race of the 12th Parliament,” Among said.
She thanked President Museveni, the NRM and Members of Parliament for entrusting her with the responsibility to serve as Deputy Speaker and later Speaker of the 11th Parliament.
Among also extended gratitude to her family and friends for the support they have given her over the last five years.
The former Speaker called on Members of the 12th Parliament to rally behind candidates endorsed by the party and the President.
She further said she remains available to serve the country in any capacity assigned to her by the President and the ruling party.
Among also pledged continued cooperation with ongoing investigations being conducted by relevant state organs regarding allegations previously raised against her.
