Speaker Anita Among with Gen. Saleh in Gulu recently.
The race for the position of NRM Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) has taken center stage within Uganda’s ruling party, as Speaker of Parliament Anita Among prepares to challenge First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga in what observers call a politically charged contest.
Both contenders have reportedly reached out to General Salim Saleh, President Yoweri Museveni’s younger brother and a key behind-the-scenes political fixer within the National Resistance Movement. While Gen. Saleh is known to influence outcomes in internal party disputes, analysts maintain that President Museveni will have the final say.
Political analysts are split on who holds the edge. “Among appears to have stronger backing from current political power players and NRM structures,” noted one analyst. “But Kadaga has a long-standing personal rapport with the President, and history shows she often prevails after direct appeals to him.”
In fact, some analysts go further, suggesting that Kadaga’s strategy may once again hinge on seeking the President’s sympathy. “She may go to Museveni, emotionally appeal to him, and emerge the winner – as she has in past political battles,” said one insider familiar with party dynamics.
Kadaga, a seasoned politician and longtime face of the Busoga region, is seen as a symbol of institutional loyalty. Among, representing a younger generation of political leaders, commands significant influence as head of Parliament.
As NRM heads into a season of intense internal politics, all eyes remain on the President — the ultimate arbiter of power within the ruling party.
Political insiders suggest that President Museveni may ultimately intervene to broker a compromise between the two powerful women.
“Mzee might say, ‘Among, stand down for Kadaga. It will be her final term.’ Because she [Among] will have invested heavily in the race, she would likely be compensated and positioned for a bigger role ahead of 2030,” one analyst noted.
Such a move, analysts argue, would allow Museveni to maintain party unity while honoring Kadaga’s long service — and keeping Among in play for future leadership.
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