By Joseph Sooka
As political tension continues to rise within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) over the position of Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) on the Central Executive Committee (CEC), several leaders from Busoga region have publicly declared their unwavering support for Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, the current office bearer.
A coalition of NRM stakeholders including Members of Parliament, district chairpersons, LC5 leaders, youth and women leagues, SIGs (Special Interest Groups) such as Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and opinion leaders convened at the Civil Service College in Jinja City today, 04th june 2025, led by Luuka South MP, Steven Kisa Bakubalwayo, to express their commitment to ensuring Kadaga retains her position during the upcoming NRM Delegates’ Conference in August 2025.
While addressing the gathering, Kisa read a joint statement emphasizing Kadaga’s long-standing contribution to the NRM and Uganda at large.
“Kadaga has been a pillar for many across the country and especially in Busoga. She has served diligently in several key positions. We are gathered here today to reaffirm our support and rally behind her to retain her seat on the CEC,” said Kissa.
He pledged to “work tooth and nail” to solicit nationwide support for Kadaga’s continued leadership, arguing that her voice is crucial for women’s empowerment, regional representation, and the NRM’s internal cohesion.Bugabula North MP, John Taylor, questioned the legitimacy of those challenging Kadaga’s candidacy.
“I don’t know where some people get the audacity to contest against Mama Kadaga, who is a well-established figure in the NRM,” he remarked.
Similarly, Buzaaya County MP, Martin Mugabi Muzaale, expressed concern over internal divisions within Busoga.
“While other regions are throwing their weight behind Kadaga, we still have disgruntled voices within our own backyard. Kadaga is a brand—Busoga needs Kadaga, and Kadaga needs Busoga. We must support her by all means necessary. We don’t want Busoga to be left out of the CEC ‘cake’,” he added.
Newly elected NRM Chairperson for Kamuli District, Bazanya Mathew, who is also aspiring to represent Bugabula South, echoed his commitment to mobilizing support for Kadaga.
In a similar vein, Mayuge LC5 Chairman and Governor of Busoga Consortium for Development (BCD), Bishop Frank Tibagendeka, assured full backing from both the political and development fronts.
It can be noted that the race for NRM’s Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) is currently a two-horse contest between Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, former Speaker of Parliament and current Vice Chairperson (Female) and Anita Annet Among Magogo, current Speaker of Parliament and Woman MP for Bukedea District.
This high-stakes rivalry has already caused factionalism within Busoga, with local groups branding themselves as “Team Mama” (for Kadaga) and “Team Mulamu” (for Among).
Observers suggest that the outcome of this contest will have major implications for both the regional balance of power within the NRM and national-level party dynamics, as both candidates carry significant influence and loyal followings.
As the August conference approaches, all eyes remain fixed on the unfolding political drama particularly in Busoga, where loyalty, legacy, and leadership are clashing at the heart of Uganda’s ruling party.
