Team Mulamu Leads Busoga in NRM Primaries
The recent NRM primary elections in Busoga have revealed a major shift in political power, with Speaker of Parliament Anita Among popularly known as Team Mulamu emerging stronger than ever. Her allies swept key positions, dealing a heavy blow to former Speaker Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, once the uncontested political powerhouse in the region.
Held on July 17, the elections were closely watched as a test of influence between the two women leaders. When the results came in, it was clear: Team Mulamu had taken the upper hand. Anita Among’s people dominated the polls, while many of Kadaga’s long-standing loyalists were shown the door. It remains unclear whether voters were voting along these factional lines or simply going with their own judgment but the results speak volumes.
One of the most symbolic victories was that of Solomon Silwany, often referred to as “the leader of team Mulamu ” a nickname that reflects just how close he is to the Speaker. Silwany’s win is seen as proof of Among’s growing grip on Busoga. Iddi Isabirye, MP for Bunya South, also secured his seat after a tough race. He now chairs the Busoga Parliamentary Caucus a role that had always belonged to Kadaga’s camp.
Sanon Bwiire Nadeba, MP for Bulamogi County, won too — though reports claim there was massive rigging involved. He is an open supporter of AAA (Anita Among Alliance), even keeping her photo as his WhatsApp profile picture. Brenda Namukuta, Woman MP for Kaliro, also made it through, and finally, the biggest name in Team Mulamu — Engineer Moses Magogo — sealed the Budiope East slot, further cementing the team’s hold in the region. The only major loss for Among’s side was Ismail Badogi in Kigulu North.
On the other hand, Team Kadaga — once dominant in Busoga — is now left licking its wounds. By press time, only two of Kadaga’s known allies were confirmed to have survived: Brandon Kintu, the NRM parliamentary caucus spokesperson, and Kissa Bakubalwayo of Luuka.
Kadaga’s camp suffered big losses, including John Teira of Bugabula North, Martin Muzaale of Buzaaya, Bwiino Kyakulaga of Kigulu North, Ms. Alibawo of Iganga, and most notably Moses Walyomu Muwanika of Kagoma. Walyomu was the loudest voice behind the No Kadaga, No Vote campaign, which encouraged voters to reject anyone seen as undermining Kadaga. Ironically, it was Walyomu himself who ended up being rejected at the polls. This raises a big question: did voters misunderstand the slogan, or were they simply ready to move on?
In areas where newcomers won, it’s still unclear where they stand politically whether with Team Mulamu or Team Maama (Kadaga). But for now, the political winds are clearly blowing in Anita Among’s favor.
As the Electoral Commission continues to tally the final results, one thing is certain Team Mulamu is celebrating, while Team Maama is left to regroup and rethink its strategy. Whether this is a temporary swing or a permanent power shift, the NRM primaries have sent a loud message: in Busoga, the balance of power is changing.
