Among Congratulates New Parliamentary Leadership Amid Security Restrictions and Alleged Betrayals
Kampala, Uganda – May 26, 2026
Outgoing Speaker Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among has publicly congratulated her successors, Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth and Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, on their election as Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament. The move comes amid tight security restrictions around her residence and accusations of political betrayal from within the ruling party.
In a statement posted on X, Among wrote:
“I join my colleagues in congratulating Rt Hon @ObothOboth and Rt Hon @Thomas_Tayebwa on their election as Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament. I have no doubt that your leadership will bolster the legislative agenda and promote outcomes that serve our nation’s best interests. I sincerely wish you success in your service to our country.”
Her message included photos of the new Speaker receiving the ceremonial shield and images of the leadership in parliamentary robes. Political observers have interpreted the gesture as a sign of political maturity and strategic silence in the face of adversity.
Among’s Dramatic Rise
Anita Among’s journey to the Speakership was remarkable. Originally from the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), she joined the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in 2020. Elected unopposed as Bukedea County Woman MP, she rose quickly to become Deputy Speaker in the 11th Parliament. Following the death of Speaker Jacob Oulanyah in 2022, Among was elected Speaker in a contentious process.
Her tenure featured high-profile legislative achievements, including steering the controversial Anti-Homosexuality Act, and she enjoyed strong initial backing from President Museveni and the NRM, including endorsement from the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) for re-election.
How Things Went Wrong
Among’s fall from grace was swift. In early May 2026, reports emerged of her acquiring a luxury Rolls-Royce Cullinan worth approximately $440,000, triggering intense public scrutiny and allegations of illicit enrichment.
Key turning points followed:
· Mid-May 2026: A critical State House meeting chaired by President Museveni, where Among was reportedly questioned over her wealth.
· May 16–17: Joint security teams raided her homes in Nakasero and other locations. Luxury vehicles, including the Rolls-Royce, were seized, and her phone was reportedly confiscated for forensic analysis.
· Security Restrictions: Heavy security was deployed around her residence, restricting her movements. She was reportedly unable to attend NRM CEC meetings or the parliamentary election on May 25, citing illness and security concerns—conditions some sources described as effective house arrest.
· Withdrawal: Under mounting pressure, including from Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), Among withdrew from the Speakership race to “maintain harmony” within the NRM.
Critics and former colleagues accused her of betrayals within the party, with many distancing themselves as investigations expanded to her parliamentary office. Despite this, Among has largely maintained silence and composure.
Landslide Victory for New Leadership
On May 25, 2026, Jacob Oboth-Oboth (NRM, West Budama Central) won the Speakership with 441 votes against Paul Mwiru (60) and Norbert Mao (15) at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. Thomas Tayebwa was re-elected Deputy Speaker with 457 votes. President Museveni witnessed the event and handed over the instruments of power.
In his maiden speech, Oboth-Oboth promised a corruption-free Parliament focused on public trust and national development.
A Message of Maturity
Despite reported betrayals by some colleagues and the intense security situation that prevented her participation in key meetings and the election, Anita Among chose to extend public congratulations. Her statement marks a quiet end to a dramatic leadership chapter and signals a new era for the 12th Parliament under NRM dominance, with expectations of renewed focus on accountability.
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