By Aggrey Baba
Democratic Party (DP) president General and Laroo-Pece MP-elect Norbert Mao has dismissed as false claims that e owns malls in Kampala, saying the allegations are being used to undermine his bid for Speaker of the 12th Parliament.
Mao, peaking on Tuesday during DP’s weekly press conference at its headquarters in Mengo, said he has recently been confronted with repeated claims in sections of the media suggesting he owns buildings and other prime properties in the city centre.
He flatly rejected the allegations saying he doesn’t own any building in Kampala.
“The only property my wife and I own is in Makindye-Ssabagabo in Wakiso District,” Mao said.
To reinforce his position, the Laroo-Pece MP issued a public challenge, calling on anyone with evidence of property ownership in his name within Kampala to come forward.
“Let any Ugandan trace and identify that property. If it is proven, I will give it to them free of charge,” he said, describing the claims as part of a calculated smear campaign linked to his declared interest in the speakership, arguing that political opponents are attempting to weaken his credibility ahead of the contest.
The DP leader said the timing and persistence of the allegations point to deliberate efforts to shape public perception against him, describing the allegations as just rumours being weaponised against his speakership bid.
He maintained that he remains firmly in the race and is not deterred by these diversionary tactics.
Mao expressed confidence in his chances, insisting that his campaign is built on reforming Parliament rather than engaging in transactional politics.
He also took aim at his competitors, including the incumbent Speaker Anita Annet Among, rejecting the notion that the contest is about political rivalry or financial influence.
“This is not about who can give money to MPs to secure votes. My ambition is centred on restoring the integrity and independence of Parliament,” he added.
According to him, the speakership race should be judged on leadership, institutional credibility, and the ability to strengthen parliamentary oversight, rather than financial muscle or political patronage.
Mao’s response signals an attempt to directly confront and neutralise narratives he believes are being used to question his personal wealth and integrity, while shifting the focus of the race to governance and institutional reform. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
