By Dean Lubowa Saava
Deep State Political Desk
The Busoga sub-region in Uganda has long been a hotbed of political activity, with divisions dating back to 1986. However, the recent announcement by Speaker Anita Among to challenge Rebecca Kadaga for the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) Second Vice Chairperson (Female) seat has added a new layer of complexity to the region’s politics.
Among, who previously ousted Kadaga from the parliamentary speakership in 2021, has declared her intention to contest for the influential Women’s Chairperson seat. This move is seen as a strategic bid to consolidate her power within the NRM and potentially redefine the party’s future direction.
Kadaga, a veteran politician and current Minister for East African Community Affairs, has yet to officially comment on Among’s announcement, but her supporters are closely watching the developments.
The Battle for Busoga’s Representation
The contest between Among and Kadaga transcends personal ambition, reflecting deeper ideological and factional divides within the NRM.
Busoga, being a crucial swing region, will play a significant role in determining the outcome of the NRM primaries. Both candidates are leveraging the region’s unique dynamics to solidify their bids, making it a central stage where their narratives, development agendas, and allegiances will be tested.
Development Agendas and Allegiances
Among has been actively campaigning in Busoga, focusing on poverty alleviation and local livelihoods. She has promised to extend her successful educational model from Bukedea to Busoga and has committed to reopening Busoga University.
Kadaga, on the other hand, has championed economic corridor initiatives, such as the tarmac roads connecting Jinja and Buyende, and has advocated for infrastructure development to boost youth employment.
Implications for the NRM
The outcome of this contest will have significant implications for the future of the NRM and Ugandan politics. Among’s bid is seen as a bold challenge to Kadaga’s dominance, and the winner will have considerable influence over the party’s direction.
As the campaign intensifies, both leaders are expected to pull out all the stops to win, making this a closely watched contest.
