By Few political figures in Uganda have experienced a rise as swift and dramatic as Anita Annet Among. In less than a decade, she moved from being a relatively little-known legislator to becoming one of the most powerful figures in the country. Yet the same political momentum that elevated her to the pinnacle of parliamentary leadership now appears to have placed her at one of the most difficult moments of her political career.
Humble beginnings
Born in Bukedea District, Among built a professional background in accounting and law before entering active politics. Her political journey, however, did not begin within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). She first emerged as a prominent member of the opposition and was regarded as a strong member of the opposition party, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), where she was considered close to Kizza Besigye.
During her early parliamentary career, Among gained visibility after being elected Vice Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), a key parliamentary committee responsible for oversight and accountability of public resources. The position increased her national profile and introduced her as a rising political figure with growing influence.
She later made a dramatic political shift by crossing from the opposition to the NRM, a move that generated widespread discussion and changed the trajectory of her career. She rose through the political ranks as Bukedea Woman Member of Parliament before becoming Deputy Speaker in 2021 and later Speaker following the death of Jacob Oulanyah in 2022. Her rise represented one of the fastest political ascents in recent Ugandan history, transforming her from a district politician into a national power broker and one of the country’s most influential women.
As Speaker, Among expanded her influence within Parliament and beyond, building a strong political base and becoming an increasingly visible figure in national affairs. Supporters viewed her as a decisive leader with strong grassroots connections and significant political influence.
Political power
Her position as Speaker elevated her beyond parliamentary proceedings and placed her at the center of national politics. Her influence extended to grassroots mobilization, party structures and public life, earning her admiration among supporters who viewed her as a powerful and effective leader.
For many observers, Among’s political rise reflected ambition, strategic alliances and the ability to navigate Uganda’s complex political environment. Her growing profile made her one of the most visible faces within the ruling establishment.
Allegations
However, with increasing influence came growing scrutiny. Questions surrounding parliamentary expenditure, allegations of corruption and concerns over wealth accumulation gradually shifted public discussion around her leadership.
The pressure intensified internationally after sanctions and corruption-related allegations emerged, accusations she has consistently denied. Public debate increasingly focused on accountability and governance concerns, with critics arguing that Parliament had become associated with growing public dissatisfaction.
Investigations
In recent weeks, reports of expanding state investigations and security operations linked to allegations surrounding her wealth and conduct added further pressure to her political future. Among herself acknowledged the ongoing investigations and pledged cooperation with state agencies handling the inquiries. To date, the allegations remain under investigation and no judicial determination has been made.
Political observers have also pointed to changing power dynamics within the ruling party. Reports suggest that shifts in support and endorsements weakened her position ahead of the Speakership race.
A dramatic turn
Among’s decision to withdraw from the race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament marked a significant turning point. In announcing her withdrawal, she said the decision followed “wide consultations and deep introspection” and was intended to preserve harmony within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Whether Anita Among’s current position represents a permanent political fall or simply a difficult phase in a still-unfolding career remains uncertain. Political history has shown that influence can rise quickly, but it can also fade just as rapidly.
What Next?
Despite the dramatic political turn, Anita Among may not be leaving the corridors of power entirely without institutional support. Parliament entitle her to a substantial retirement package under Uganda’s parliamentary pension laws, benefits that could cushion the impact of her political decline.
Benefits include:
- Monthly pension equivalent to 60% of the salary of the sitting Speaker
- A lump-sum retirement payment based on years served
- Two chauffeur-driven four-wheel vehicles, replaced every five years
- Four security guards
- Four domestic staff members
- Free medical care for the retired Speaker and spouse(s)
- Monthly utility allowances and other office-related benefits
