Delegates from Kaberamaido and Kalaki districts have unanimously endorsed the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, for the position of 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female) of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC).
The endorsement comes ahead of the crucial party elections slated for August 27 and 28, 2025, where Among seeks to replace former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga Alitwala.
Speaking during different delegates’ meetings convened in Kaberamaido and Kalaki, local leaders pledged a “block vote” for Among, describing her as a transformational figure whose leadership continues to inspire confidence within Teso sub-region and beyond.
David Ababa, a District Councilor and delegate from Kaberamaido, emphasized the region’s unwavering support for the Speaker.
“Anita is an icon for Teso, and as Kaberamaido, we are going to give her a block vote. She has demonstrated true leadership that unites and empowers people,” he stated.
Ababa further used the platform to highlight the need for the NRM government to address unresolved issues affecting local government leaders, particularly remuneration.
“We have a very big gap in the welfare of local government leaders. For instance, the enumeration for LC5 chairpersons is extremely low compared to the duties and workload they carry. I pray that government and the CEC sit to address this,” he urged.
He also underscored the growing identity and influence of the Kumam community, calling for greater political recognition.
“Kumam is no longer a minority among Ateker-speaking people; we are now a majority. We thank NRM for recognizing our cultural heritage, but as we continue to grow, we also seek more representation, including cabinet positions,” he noted.
Ababa lauded government’s infrastructural efforts, particularly the UGX 1 billion allocation that has improved district roads, but urged for expedited works on the Katine–Ochero–Akampala Road and the Bukungu-Kaberamaido-Kalaki (BKK) ferry project.
Eotu Samuel, the Kaberamaido District NRM Publicity Secretary, praised Speaker Among’s inclusive leadership and urged the community to collectively document and present their grievances.
“Anita works with everyone. I challenge the people of Kaberamaido to design a comprehensive memo highlighting our challenges so that they can be presented to the party leadership,” he said.
Meanwhile, Monicah Adongo, the Kaberamaido District Vice Chairperson, called for unity within the party, noting that internal disputes often weaken its grassroots strength.
“We need radical change towards cooperation and brotherhood. The NRM must establish clear dispute resolution mechanisms because poorly managed polls have strained our cohesion,” she remarked.
Epiu Grace Junior, the District Youth Councilor, hailed Among for her unwavering support to youth initiatives, citing a notable instance in 2023 when she financially supported Alwa Seed Secondary School during its participation in the national sports competitions.
“She gave us UGX 3 million to facilitate our players to Nyakasura for the national tournament. She didn’t have to visit our district or school to help, which shows her love for everyone. As youth, we are fully behind her,” Epiu affirmed.
In neighboring Kalaki District, Maria Gorreti Ajilo, the NRM District Chairperson and flag bearer, echoed similar sentiments, declaring full support from the district’s delegates.
“We are rallying 100% behind Rt. Hon. Anita Among. She is a competent leader whose experience and influence will benefit not only Teso but the entire country,” Ajilo stated.
Representing Speaker Among at the event, Mr. Arinaitwe Rwakajara underscored the importance of the CEC position she is contesting, saying it plays a key role in the party’s decision-making.
“This is the supreme organ that determines plans and programs for Ugandans. The Speaker wants to be part of that organ so she can directly advocate for issues affecting our communities,” Rwakajara emphasized.
He urged party structures and grassroots leaders to intensify mobilization and campaign efforts, describing Among as a “unifying figure who has transformed Parliament and even won over opposition MPs to support government programs.”
Rwakajara further applauded Speaker Among’s firm stance against homosexuality, noting it resonated with Ugandan cultural values.
“She has consistently defended our traditions and values, earning her respect across political divides,” he added.
While pledging loyalty to the NRM, the delegates collectively reminded government of unfulfilled past campaign promises, especially in areas of infrastructure, health, education, and youth empowerment.
They urged that support for the Kumam community be prioritized through ministerial appointments and faster completion of major road and ferry projects that connect the districts.
They also demanded better welfare packages for local leaders, stressing that underpaid officials struggle to meet their responsibilities.
The meeting concluded with a resounding declaration from delegates across both districts that they would deliver an overwhelming vote for Anita Among come August 28.
Eotu Samuel said, “When we vote for NRM and for Anita, we expect government to reciprocate by addressing our pressing needs. This is the social contract we are signing.”
With growing momentum in Teso, Speaker Among’s bid for the NRM CEC position appears to be gathering significant regional support, positioning her as a formidable contender in the upcoming internal party elections.
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