Politics 18 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
MP Jovia Katusiime's Swift Pivot Fuels Debate on Political Opportunism in Uganda's Parliament
A viral video showing Kiryandongo District Woman MP Jovia Katusiime endorsing Jacob Oboth-Oboth after previously supporting Anita Among has ignited a debate about political loyalty and opportunism in Uganda's 12th Parliament. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/loyalty-for-sale-mp-jovia-katusiime-s-swift-pivot-sparks-debate-on-opportunism-in-uganda-s-12th-parliament-5464156
A video capturing a rapid shift in political allegiance by Kiryandongo District Woman MP Jovia Katusiime has gone viral, sparking discussions about opportunism within Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The clip shows MP Katusiime quickly realigning her support from incumbent Speaker Anita Among to Defence Minister Jacob Oboth-Oboth, shortly after Ms. Among withdrew her bid for the speakership.
This sudden pivot comes amidst significant political maneuvering. Ms. Among, who faced corruption investigations and asset seizures, reportedly stepped aside under pressure from President Museveni. Oboth-Oboth, now backed by influential figures, is seen as the new frontrunner.
Political analysts are citing Katusiime’s change of heart as a prime example of how quickly allegiances can shift in Kampala’s political landscape, often driven by self-preservation rather than conviction.
Such rapid U-turns by MPs are seen by critics as undermining the integrity of the legislature, turning critical votes into exercises of political survival. The intense dynamics with a new power center emerging mean MPs must adapt swiftly, even if it means abandoning previous stances.