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Anita Among’s tenure as Speaker of Uganda’s Parliament presents a stark paradox. Publicly, she embodies a powerful, independent leader championing popular accountability and social causes. Yet, critics argue this image masks a deeper reality: her role as a key enforcer of President Yoweri Museveni’s political continuity.
The Public Face of a “Strong” Speaker
Since taking the gavel, Among has cultivated an image of a no-nonsense leader. She has been praised for initiatives like the “Koga” (to save) accountability drive, ostensibly aimed at recovering public funds. Her well-publicized philanthropy, including building health centers and funding education in her constituency, has bolstered her popularity. This public persona positions her as a responsive leader directly addressing citizens’ needs.
The Shadow of Authoritarianism and Allegiance
However, this facade of independence is scrutinized against her actions. Under her leadership, Parliament has been accused of rapidly passing legislation that critics say curtails civil liberties, such as the contentious Anti-Homosexuality Act. More critically, her handling of the “Ugandans for Uganda” protest—barring the group and questioning their patriotism—echoed a familiar tactic of stifling dissent.
Her rise to power is itself shadowed by the unresolved murder of her predecessor, Jacob Oulanyah, and the subsequent political maneuvering that secured her position with the blessing of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). This has led many to view her as the establishment’s chosen candidate.
The Corruption Elephant in the Room
The most damaging allegations concern corruption. Among, alongside her deputies, faces sanctions from the UK and US for their alleged roles in a plunder scheme involving the chamber’s budget. While she has framed these sanctions as an attack on Uganda’s sovereignty, the accusations severely undermine her “Koga” accountability narrative and paint a picture of impunity.
Conclusion: Symbol of What Change?
The Anita Among dichotomy forces a question: Is she a symbol of change or a masterful performer in Museveni’s political theater? Her social welfare projects create a compelling local narrative, but her national actions—rushing through repressive laws, silencing opposition, and facing grave corruption allegations—suggest her primary role is to manage Parliament in a way that ensures the regime’s survival. For now, Anita Among appears less as an agent of change and more as a sophisticated instrument of Museveni’s continuity.
