The Busoga sub-region is reeling from political shockwaves following Rebecca Kadaga’s overwhelming defeat to Speaker of Parliament Anita Among in the just-concluded NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) elections for the National Vice Chairperson (Female) seat.
In a vote that has exposed deep-rooted political divisions within Busoga, Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Kamuli District Woman MP, garnered just 902 votes (7.2%), compared to Among’s commanding 11,680 votes (92.8%) out of 12,582 total ballots cast.
Among’s landslide win was a political upset for Kadaga, a seasoned politician and one of the most influential figures from Busoga. Her loss has triggered mixed reactions — ranging from disappointment to reflection — within the sub-region, where many had expected her to perform strongly.
The race fractured Busoga into informal factions — “Team Mama”, representing Kadaga’s supporters, and “Team Mulamu” (Team In-law) backing Among, who is married to Budiope East MP and FUFA President Moses Magogo, a native of Buyende in Busoga.
Among’s victory in traditionally Kadaga-aligned areas has raised eyebrows. She won in districts like Buyende (69-9), Kaliro (75-7), Namayingo (67-3), Iganga (58-39), and Bugiri (96-19). Kadaga held her ground in Kamuli (119-16) and had strong showings in Luuka, Mayuge, Bugweri, Namutumba, and Jinja. Still, Among led the overall tally in Busoga with 499 votes to Kadaga’s 455, a symbolic blow to the region’s political matriarch.
Kadaga’s supporters have voiced discontent and a sense of betrayal from within. Asuman Ngobi, an NRM mobilizer from Jinja City, said Busoga’s failure to unite behind Kadaga speaks to deeper regional weaknesses.
“We’ve seen Teso solidly back Among, yet Busoga let internal differences get in the way. This lack of unity cost us a major seat at the national table,” Ngobi said.
Ramallah Mbeiza, a youth activist from Mayuge, echoed similar sentiments, noting that internal sabotage has long plagued Busoga politics.
“There’s a trend of fighting our own. Many capable leaders from Busoga are blocked from rising due to internal rivalries,” she said.
Bugweri Woman MP Rachel Magoola, one of Kadaga’s vocal supporters, praised delegates from districts that stood by her.
“I thank the people of Bugweri and all who voted for Kadaga. You showed loyalty, resilience, and an understanding of Busoga’s need for a strong voice at the national level,” she remarked.
Yet, not all voices were sympathetic. Some leaders argue that Kadaga’s loss is a sign it’s time to make way for new leadership.
Charles Mpalabule, Speaker of Kamuli District Local Government, said:
“Kadaga’s legacy is undisputed, but politics is dynamic. We must embrace new energy and modern thinking. Among now has a stronger platform to lobby for the region.”
In her concession remarks, Kadaga raised serious concerns about the election process, accusing Among’s camp of engaging in bribery — distributing cash, iPads, and smartphones to influence delegates. She also cited issues with fake delegate lists and voting delays, calling on President Yoweri Museveni to intervene and ensure electoral credibility within the ruling party.
Kadaga’s loss marks a significant political turning point for Busoga. Once seen as an untouchable political force, her defeat raises questions about the future of regional representation and unity in Uganda’s evolving political landscape.
For now, Busoga finds itself at a crossroads — torn between loyalty to a seasoned stateswoman and the rising influence of a new power center anchored by Anita Among and her growing network within the NRM.
