Ugandan Speaker Anita Among Withdraws from Re-election Amidst Corruption Probe

For years, Anita Annet Among stood as a seemingly unassailable force in Ugandan politics. Rising from a relatively unknown legislator from Bukedea District, she ascended to become Speaker of Parliament, wielding influence that extended deeply into ruling party structures, State House networks, and national patronage systems.

At the peak of her power, she was considered more influential than many cabinet ministers. However, this trajectory has faced its most significant challenge yet, as Among has abandoned her bid for re-election as Speaker of the 12th Parliament.

This decision comes amidst intense corruption and money laundering investigations that have significantly reshaped Uganda’s political scene. Her withdrawal represents a stark reversal for a politician once perceived as embodying a new era of power within the ruling establishment, a rise fueled by ambition, strategic alliances, and unprecedented access to power centers.

Among’s parliamentary career began in 2016, and her colleagues quickly noted her growing influence and access, even as a first-term MP. Described by insiders as a “go-getter” and a “political merchant,” she adeptly navigated opposition politics, business interests, and connections to State House.

Her influence surged after becoming Deputy Speaker and later Speaker following the death of Jacob Oulanyah in 2022. She transformed the role of Speaker into a more politically expansive platform, traveling extensively, intervening in disputes, and funding community projects, positioning Parliament as a responsive body.

In her home district of Bukedea, she cultivated a near-celebrity status through visible development projects and philanthropy. Her power was further bolstered by a significant expansion of Parliament’s budget under her leadership, enhancing her control over resources and political networks. She also climbed the ranks of the ruling National Resistance Movement, becoming its second national vice chairperson for women.

Despite her rise, controversies shadowed her tenure. Questions surrounding her political financing, business affiliations, and the blurring lines between philanthropy and political influence persisted. Notably, her past association with businessman Hassan Basajjabalaba drew scrutiny during investigations into the controversial UBC land saga.

The turning point arrived in April 2024 when the United Kingdom sanctioned Among under its Global Anti-Corruption Regime for alleged diversion of iron sheets meant for the Karamoja region. The United States followed with similar accusations, citing “significant corruption.”

While Among denied wrongdoing, attributing the sanctions to political motivations linked to her support for Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act, many believed her domestic standing remained secure, with President Museveni publicly defending her.

However, the current investigations, particularly those involving money laundering allegations, carry more severe implications, extending beyond political controversy into questions of financial systems and criminal liability. Such probes also tend to attract significant international attention when linked to politically exposed persons.

These developments have now compelled her to step aside from the Speakership race, an outcome that seemed politically improbable until recently. In an X post on May 17, Among stated she would not seek re-election, citing “wide consultations and deep introspection” and pledging full cooperation with ongoing state investigations.

Her political downturn highlights the precarious nature of power within Uganda’s centralized system. While some supporters view her as a victim of political rivalries and international pressure, critics point to long-standing issues of corruption and weak accountability within state institutions.

The controversy has reignited broader discussions about power dynamics, resource management, and the efficacy of anti-corruption measures in Uganda. It also underscores the tension between populist appeal and institutional accountability in the country’s political landscape.

The Speakership itself now moves into a new phase, with Oboth Marksons Oboth emerging as the preferred candidate for the ruling NRM.

This article is based on reporting from The Observer (Uganda).