The Director of Communication and Public Affairs at the Parliament of Uganda, Chris Obore, has hailed Speaker Anita Among’s recent visit to the Vatican as a bold affirmation of faith over superstition in political life.
Obore, a close ally of the Speaker, described the trip as an act of genuine devotion rather than a calculated political move.
“For Ms Among to get blessings from the Holy See means she prioritises God in her life. Did they want her to visit a witch doctor’s shrine?” he remarked.
He went on to emphasise, “Ms Among is not the type to indulge in witchcraft.”
Speaker Among, who also serves as Bukedea Woman MP, recently travelled to meet Pope Leo XIV, where she received Papal Blessings.
Her visit comes just two weeks before she faces Kamuli District Woman MP and former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga in the race for the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) second vice chairperson (female) seat at Kololo Independence Grounds later this month.
Obore’s remarks appeared to indirectly reference Kadaga’s 2016 visit to a shrine at Nhenda Hill, Nakigo Sub-county, Iganga District.
That visit took place shortly after Kadaga retained the Speaker’s position in the 10th Parliament.
Kadaga defended her trip to the shrine, explaining, “These are my roots and culture.”
She further described the visit as an act of respecting clan traditions and promoting tourism.
Obore insisted that Among remains unfazed by Kadaga’s previous actions and criticisms.
“The CEC leadership is a matter for NRM party members, not a personal spat between Ms Among and Ms Kadaga,” he clarified.
While addressing NRM leaders and 2026 flag bearers in Buyende District, Speaker Among touched on the criticism she has faced over her stance on homosexuality.
“After all, the NRM is practiced in Uganda, not Canada or America,” she said.
She also spoke about her personal approach towards political rivalry with Kadaga.
“I have too much respect for Rt Hon Kadaga; however much she attacks me, I will not respond. I was brought up in a proper way. That is the woman in me you need as a leader,” she declared.
