Outgoing Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has withdrawn from the race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament amid mounting political pressure and ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and money laundering.
Among announced her decision late Sunday night through a statement posted on her official X account, saying she had chosen to step aside after “wide consultations and deep introspection.”
Her withdrawal marks a major shift in the race for Parliament’s top seat and highlights growing divisions within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The development comes days after the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), a political platform linked to Muhoozi Kainerugaba, withdrew support for Among and endorsed Jacob Oboth-Oboth for the speakership position.
Political pressure surrounding Among has intensified following coordinated security raids on several of her properties over allegations related to illicit wealth accumulation, abuse of office, and money laundering.
The situation escalated further after the arrest of incoming Masaka City Woman MP Justine Nameere, one of Among’s vocal political allies, by military operatives over the weekend.
Reports have also emerged indicating that Moses Magogo, Among’s husband and president of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), is facing increased scrutiny as investigations expand.
Among became Speaker of Parliament in 2022 following the death of Jacob Oulanyah. She had initially signaled interest in retaining the position and had reportedly been mobilising support among newly sworn-in Members of Parliament.
In her statement, Among thanked President Yoweri Museveni, the NRM party, and members of the 11th Parliament for the opportunity to serve as Deputy Speaker and Speaker.
She also pledged support for candidates endorsed by the President and the ruling party while affirming her willingness to cooperate with ongoing state investigations.
“I will not be offering myself for the Speakership race of the 12th Parliament,” Among said in the statement.
She added that she remains available to serve the country in any capacity assigned by the party and the President.
