Mbale’s Own Hon. Lydia Wanyoto Makes An Unstoppable Entrance Into Uganda’s Parliament

By Gad Masereka

Fresh momentum is building around Hon. Lydia Wanyoto’s bid for the office of Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, following her recent electoral victory and renewed prominence within national politics.

Supporters describe her candidature as a convergence of experience, institutional memory and a steady leadership style suited for a new parliamentary term that demands order, credibility and consensus building.

Wanyoto, a lawyer, diplomat and seasoned legislator, returned to Parliament after winning the Mbale City Woman Member of Parliament seat, a result that allies say has strengthened her standing as Parliament prepares to constitute its leadership.

Her entry into the Speakership conversation comes at a time when both the ruling party and the wider House are weighing the balance between political strength and the need for firm adherence to rules and procedure.

Her public record spans national, regional and continental institutions. She previously served in the East African Legislative Assembly, where she was involved in cross border legislative processes, and later held senior responsibilities at the African Union, including assignments that required mediation, governance oversight and engagement with fragile political environments.
Colleagues argue that this background has shaped a leadership style grounded in dialogue, respect for institutions and constitutionalism.

Those backing her candidature say the Speakership requires more than numerical advantage, noting that Parliament needs a presiding officer capable of managing sharp political differences without undermining the authority of the House.

One supporter remarked that her exposure to regional legislatures and continental diplomacy gives her the calm and firmness required to guide debate while protecting the independence of Parliament. Another said her career reflects consistency and integrity, qualities they believe are essential for restoring public confidence in legislative processes.

Wanyoto herself has signaled readiness to serve if entrusted with the responsibility, emphasizing the importance of rule based leadership and mutual respect among Members of Parliament.

In remarks to close associates, she has stressed that the Speaker’s office must remain impartial and focused on enabling legislators to represent their constituents effectively. She has also underscored the role of Parliament as a pillar of democratic governance rather than a battleground for partisan supremacy.

Her candidature also adds to the broader conversation on women’s leadership in Uganda’s constitutional offices. Supporters are keen to frame her bid as one driven by merit and experience, rather than symbolism, pointing to her long service record and familiarity with legislative procedure. Analysts note that her potential elevation would reinforce Uganda’s gradual but steady inclusion of women in top decision making roles.

As consultations continue within party structures and informal engagements among Members of Parliament intensify, attention is turning to how alliances will shape the final outcome.

With formal nominations yet to be concluded, Wanyoto’s supporters remain confident that her experience and measured approach will resonate across political lines as Parliament prepares to elect its next Speaker.