Politics
Kadaga Breaks Silence After CEC Defeat, Decries Bribery and Intimidation
Former Speaker of Parliament, Rebecca Kadaga, has issued a strongly worded statement following her defeat to Speaker Anita Among in the ruling party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) race, a contest that has exposed deep rifts within the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
In her remarks, Kadaga expressed gratitude to her supporters while condemning what she described as widespread malpractice.
“I deeply thank everyone who, despite massive voter bribery and intimidation, stood by me,” she said. “The gross abuse of office witnessed throughout this election is truly unacceptable. We cherish our party, but if this oppression persists, we shall be left with no choice but to walk away.”
Kadaga’s words underscore a mounting wave of dissatisfaction among sections of the NRM, who accuse the party’s top leadership of stifling internal democracy. Allegations of cash handouts to delegates, coupled with reports of threats against dissenting voices, have added fuel to claims that the CEC elections were neither free nor fair.
The contest between Kadaga and Among was widely seen as a test of loyalty and influence within the ruling party. While Among enjoyed the backing of the party establishment, Kadaga—who has long been a formidable figure in Ugandan politics—framed her campaign as a fight against corruption and political manipulation.
Observers note that Kadaga’s warning about a possible exit from the party reflects a growing sense of frustration among veteran cadres who feel sidelined in favor of newer power brokers. Political analysts argue that such divisions could weaken the NRM’s cohesion ahead of future national elections if not addressed.
The CEC race, though an internal party affair, has drawn national attention due to the stature of the contenders and the allegations it has generated. Analysts believe the aftermath of this election could have lasting implications on the unity of the NRM, with Kadaga’s defiance serving as a rallying cry for those pushing for reforms in the party’s internal governance.
As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how the NRM leadership will respond to Kadaga’s grievances, and whether her threat to “walk away” signals the beginning of a deeper political realignment.
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