Politics 17 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kyankwanzi Retreat Signals Shift in Anita Among's Influence Within NRM
Anita Among's authority faces direct challenge as President Museveni invites Norbert Mao, a speakership contender, to the NRM's Kyankwanzi retreat, hinting at her waning role as a key power broker despite likely retaining the Speaker position. Tensions trace back to ignored pleas and past political frictions, marking a pivot in her standing with the regime ahead of 2026 elections. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kyankwanzi-chronicles-what-next-for-among--5427292
The NRM’s recent week-long retreat in Kyankwanzi has spotlighted uncertainties for Speaker Anita Among. While she appears set to hold onto the House speakership, her status as a central figure in the ruling party’s power dynamics seems to be fading.
President Museveni’s decision to invite Norbert Mao, the Democratic Party leader eyeing the Speaker role, underscored this shift. Among labeled Mao an ‘outsider’ and warned against handing him the position, but Museveni praised Mao’s qualities and framed his bid as a unity effort among Ugandans.
This isn’t the first instance of Museveni sidelining Among’s views. During campaign events, she urged him to block UPC’s Betty Amongi from challenging an NRM candidate, yet he stayed silent, focusing instead on the party’s historical contributions to stability.
Among’s rapid ascent—from FDC opposition ranks in 2006 to NRM’s second national vice chairperson in 2023, defeating veteran Rebecca Kadaga—highlights her go-getter reputation. She joined NRM in 2016 after stints as an Independent MP and faced mole accusations within FDC.
Her ties with Museveni grew strong, evidenced by his visits to Bukedea for projects like a science lab and hospital. Yet cracks emerged, including regional clashes with VP Jessica Alupo and a controversial Bukedea by-election prompting Museveni’s corruption probe.
Recent overtures, like Gen Muhoozi urging Mao to step back for a potentially bigger role such as Prime Minister, fuel speculation of Among’s declining relevance. Analyst Dr. Yusuf Serunkuma notes her mobilization skills but highlights limits, contrasting her challenges with Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa’s smoother path.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)