DEPUTY SPEAKER RACE: Lawmakers rally behind Legal Heavyweight Barister Makmot Otto pronouncing Regional Balance

By Okidi Patrick

KAMPALA, UGANDA — As the race for the Deputy Speakership of the 12th Parliament intensifies, Agago County legislator Hon. Edward Makmot Otto has emerged as a formidable contender, with colleagues pointing to his elite legal pedigree and mastery of legislative practice as some of the MPs advocate for regional balance ahead of May 25th, 2026 Speaker and Deputy Speakership race respectively.Far from an ordinary politician, Otto is an exceptionally decorated legal expert. Beyond holding a law degree from the prestigious Makerere University Law School, Hon Otto Edward Makmot is a certified Barrister and holds a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, placing him among the most highly trained legal minds in the August House of the 12th parliament of Uganda.

Master of Parliamentary Rules:

Child delegate for Makasa speaking before the members of the National consituent Assemby in 1994 while also then chair Junior debating at St Kitovu and Jr HP. PHOTO/ COURTESY.

Swearing in as Guild minister at Makerere University in his early days.

Barrister & Solicitor Canada and Advocate of Uganda Law Society.Photo/ Courtesy.

Several legislators backing his bid have noted that Otto’s deep grasp of parliamentary jurisprudence makes him a natural fit to preside over the multi-party House.

The Agago County MP was actively involved in debating, refining, and compiling the current Rules of Procedure of the Parliament of Uganda. His supporters argue that this institutional memory guarantees smooth plenary sessions and unbiased guidance to lawmakers during complex legislative debates.

The Regional Balance Factor

The upcoming Speakership and Deputy Speakership elections have also triggered intense debates regarding national inclusivity. A cross-section of Members of Parliament who spoke to our reporters emphasized that regional equity must be a deciding factor in electing the next presiding officers.

“We need a leadership structure that reflects the entire face of Uganda,” noted a Western region legislator. “Hon. Makmot Otto does not just bring unmatched legal competence; his elevation would satisfy the critical need for regional balance, ensuring the north is strongly represented at the helm of the 12th Parliament.”

With his background as an international lawyer and seasoned legislator, Otto’s candidature is expected to reshape the political dynamics as lobbying intensifies ahead of the secret ballot vote.