Nambooze Expresses Sympathy for Ailing Anita Among, Says Power Has Turned Its Back

Mukono Municipality Member of Parliament Betty Nambooze Bakireke has expressed sympathy for former Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among amid reports of her deteriorating health, while using the occasion to reflect on what she described as the unpredictable nature of political power.

In a strongly worded statement shared on social media, Nambooze said it was painful to witness the rapid fall from influence of a leader who until recently occupied one of the country’s most powerful offices.

“It hurts to see how fast power turns its back,” Nambooze wrote.

The opposition legislator noted that Among, who was once at the center of state power and enjoyed extensive support from the ruling establishment, now reportedly finds herself isolated, battling health challenges and facing ongoing investigations.

“Only yesterday she was honored. Today she faces deposition, public humiliation, and a trail of investigations in open court,” Nambooze said.

Despite their political differences, Nambooze said she sympathized with the former Speaker, arguing that no individual deserves to endure such circumstances, particularly after years of loyalty to the political system they supported.

“I cannot help but sympathize with my sister, Anita Annet Among. She does not deserve this, especially under a regime she betrayed everything to support,” Nambooze stated.

She used the situation to caution political leaders against placing excessive faith in those in positions of authority, arguing that political alliances can quickly shift when circumstances change.

“What does this tell us? That rulers are unpredictable. When you don’t support them, they ask ‘why?’ When you do, they still ask ‘why?’” she remarked.

The Mukono Municipality MP contrasted political power with public support, saying ordinary citizens often remain loyal even when leaders fall from favor.

“The people may not reward you with titles or privilege, but they are consistent. They remember,” she said.

Nambooze also recalled previous parliamentary debates in which Among dismissed concerns raised by opposition legislators regarding accountability and governance. She specifically referenced remarks made by Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, who had warned about what he described as growing impunity within state institutions.

She further referred to Among’s response after being sanctioned by the United Kingdom over alleged corruption-related concerns, noting that the former Speaker had publicly stated that the only visa she needed was one to her home district of Bukedea.

According to reports, Among is currently seeking specialized medical attention abroad following concerns about swelling in her legs and other health complications.

“Now she urgently needs a visa to a country with better health facilities. Irony has a cruel bite,” Nambooze wrote.

The opposition lawmaker also criticized legislation that Among championed during her tenure as Speaker, arguing that some of the laws promoted under her leadership could now complicate efforts to seek assistance from international partners.

At the same time, Nambooze called for solidarity and support for the former Speaker, praising former Kampala Central MP Muhammad Nsereko for publicly speaking out about her condition.

She urged other political leaders to join efforts aimed at ensuring Among receives the medical care she requires.

“Because when the tide turns, it’s the numbers you fought to suppress that you’ll be begging to rise,” Nambooze concluded.

Reports about Among’s health have generated widespread public discussion, with supporters and critics alike calling for her well-being to be prioritized while ongoing investigations proceed through the appropriate legal channels.

Neither Parliament nor government authorities have issued an official statement regarding her reported condition or any plans for medical referral abroad.

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