Former Uganda Netball Federation president Sarah Babirye Kityo has expressed interest in the position of Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda for the 2026–2031 term.
The positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker remain vacant ahead of the 12th Parliament.
This comes amid ongoing investigations into former Speaker Anita Annet Among and her former deputy Thomas Tayebwa over corruption allegations, with neither yet confirming intentions to return and contest.
“After deep reflection and engagement, and guided by the spirit of ‘For God and My Country,’ I am honored to express my interest in serving as Deputy Speaker of Parliament of Uganda 2026–2031,” Babirye said in a statement.
“With humility and a strong commitment to national service, and under the guiding principle of accountable leadership, I look forward to continuing to work alongside other dedicated leaders under the leadership of H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, together with colleagues across Parliament and government, to strengthen our democracy, advance unity, and serve all Ugandans with integrity and purpose.”
Babirye, the newly elected Bukoto East Member of Parliament, was sworn in last week.
Her party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has already fronted West Budama County South MP Jacob Oboth-Oboth for the Speakership position, while the party’s preferred candidate for Deputy Speaker is yet to be unveiled.
During her swearing-in ceremony, Babirye pledged to advocate for sports development and reportedly views the Deputy Speakership role as an opportunity to further push the interests of the sector.
Her tenure as Uganda Netball Federation president initially registered notable progress before ending controversially following a fallout with the National Council of Sports (NCS).
Babirye accused NCS General Secretary Dr Bernard Ogwel of demanding kickbacks and withholding federation funds — allegations Ogwel denied, while accusing the federation of accountability failures.
The controversy later attracted the intervention of First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni at State House, where broader governance concerns in Ugandan netball, including corruption allegations and financial accountability issues, were discussed.
Babirye was later asked to step aside for three months to allow investigations into the matter, although disagreements reportedly persisted even after the suspension period elapsed.
At one point, she was remanded to Luzira Prison over fraud-related accusations.
Her statement expressing interest in the Deputy Speakership role has since attracted mixed reactions on social media.
Denis Bbosa wrote: “Dream on, but I guess your chances are very slim.”
Shaban Lubega added: “The issue is that you are also corrupt…”
Another commenter, Duke of Bunyoro, wrote: “Looks like you forgot what happened during your time as Netball president.”
However, some supporters backed her bid.
“You are very intelligent. I wish they can consider you,” wrote NI Innocent.
Mats Hazard added: “We support you, dear honorable.”
Ed Grace Iga commented: “We in the sports fraternity wish you all the best.”
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