Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among has stamped her authority within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), securing a resounding victory in the race for the party’s 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female).
In an election closely watched across Uganda’s political landscape, Among garnered 11,680 votes, leaving her rival and former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga trailing with just 902. The results, announced at 11:14 pm on Wednesday by NRM Electoral Commission chairperson Dr. Tanga Odoi, marked one of the most decisive wins in recent party contests.
A Statement of Strength
Among’s triumph is being seen not only as a personal milestone but as a clear signal of her rising clout inside the NRM. By clinching a seat on the powerful Central Executive Committee (CEC), she now joins the inner sanctum that shapes the party’s direction and strategy ahead of 2026.
Analysts argue that the landslide amounts to more than just numbers—it demonstrates her ability to consolidate support within the grassroots, positioning her as a key player in the ruling party’s future.
High Drama at Kololo
The vote unfolded at Kololo Independence Grounds under the watchful gaze of President Yoweri Museveni. Delegates, drenched in heat and energized by hours of chants, lined up openly behind their preferred candidate in what became a test of loyalty as much as leadership.
The sheer margin of victory drew whispers that Kadaga’s long dominance within the NRM women’s leadership had been decisively eclipsed.
Kadaga Pushes Back
Even before the announcement, Kadaga made her frustrations known, alleging malpractice in the process.
“I deeply thank everyone who, despite massive voter bribery and intimidation, stood by me. The gross abuse of office witnessed throughout this election is truly unacceptable,” she wrote on X.
She added a warning that hinted at an uncertain future:
“We cherish our party, but if this oppression persists, we shall be left with no choice but to walk away.”
Among’s Rapid Rise
For Among, however, Tuesday night was a crowning moment in a career that has accelerated at breakneck speed—from Member of Parliament to Deputy Speaker, and now Speaker of Parliament. Her emphatic victory against Kadaga solidifies her as one of the most influential figures in the NRM hierarchy.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Anita Among’s landslide has not just secured her a seat on the CEC—it has reshaped the contours of power within Uganda’s ruling party.
