The National Resistance Movement (NRM) party’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at State House became tense when former Speaker of Parliament, Rebecca Kadaga, openly challenged President Yoweri Museveni. The confrontation came as the party discussed the race for the NRM Vice Chairperson (Female), where Kadaga is fighting to retain her seat against Speaker of Parliament Anita Among.
Kadaga, a veteran politician, spoke with emotion about her past struggles, particularly her removal as Speaker of Parliament. “I was publicly humiliated when I was removed as Speaker, and I took it in good faith. How much more can you push an individual?” she asked, leaving many NEC members silent. Her statement highlighted longstanding tensions between her and some party leaders and was seen as a rare act of bold defiance against the President.
The clash comes at a critical moment for the NRM, as internal divisions and rivalries for key leadership positions are growing. Kadaga emphasized her decades of loyalty to the party and questioned why new entrants like Anita Among, who joined the NRM only three years ago, are contesting for top positions. Her remarks reflected not only personal frustrations but also the concerns of members who feel sidelined in decision-making.
Observers noted that President Museveni responded firmly, showing how sensitive the contest for leadership positions has become. Despite the tension, Kadaga earned admiration from some members for speaking out on issues that others might avoid. Her question, “How much more can you push an individual?” resonated with those who value internal party democracy and respect for long-serving leaders.
As the NRM heads into its internal elections, this confrontation could have lasting effects on party unity. It has exposed cracks in the leadership and raised questions about how dissent within the party will be handled. For Kadaga, the incident reinforces her role as a prominent political figure in Uganda, unafraid to defend her principles and speak boldly on behalf of her supporters.
