Anita Among out of Cabinet, shifts focus to MP role

President Yoweri Museveni’s recent Cabinet announcement saw the notable absence of former Speaker Anita Among, signaling a new chapter in her political career. Previously holding the third-highest office in the land, Among will now serve as the Bukedea District Woman Member of Parliament, reverting to a backbencher role in the 12th Parliament.

This transition is seen by political analysts as a considerable change from the significant influence and authority she wielded as Speaker. The Speaker’s office comes with extensive executive privileges, state facilitation, and national visibility, all of which will be adjusted in her new capacity. Her focus is expected to pivot towards constituency representation and engagement in parliamentary committee work.

Until recently, Among was reportedly considering a bid for another term as Speaker. However, sources suggest a closed-door meeting at State House Entebbe led to her withdrawal from the race, paving the way for Jacob Oboth-Oboth to be elected Speaker, with Thomas Tayebwa retaining the Deputy Speaker position.

These developments occur amidst ongoing investigations into allegations of corruption and abuse of office linked to Among and controversies that marked the 11th Parliament. Security agencies have recently searched multiple properties associated with her, reportedly in connection with these investigations. During these searches, two luxury vehicles, a Rolls-Royce and a Range Rover, were observed being transported from her residence.

Amidst the speculation and the shift in her political standing, Among did issue a public statement congratulating Jacob Oboth-Oboth and Thomas Tayebwa on their election as Speaker and Deputy Speaker, respectively. This marks her first public comment since stepping aside from the Speakership race.

This turn of events contrasts with the historical trend where outgoing Speakers have often been appointed to other government positions, such as former Speaker Edward Ssekandi’s appointment as Vice President and Rebecca Kadaga’s role as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs. The focus now shifts to Among’s future in Parliament and the progression of the ongoing investigations.

Read more: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/among-left-out-of-museveni-cabinet-to-concentrate-on-mp-role-5475948