Opinion: Uganda’s “Maliza Ufisadi” – A Selective Disgrace to a Dedicated Servant
In the annals of Uganda’s political history, few leaders have risen as dramatically or delivered as prolifically in a short time as Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, the outgoing Speaker of the 11th Parliament. From humble beginnings in Bukedea to the pinnacle of legislative leadership, her tenure has been marked by unprecedented productivity, loyalty to the ruling party, and advancement of key national priorities. Yet, the ongoing “Maliza Ufisadi” (End Corruption) operation, which has targeted her with raids, asset seizures, and intense scrutiny, risks becoming less a genuine anti-graft crusade and more a public humiliation of one of the country’s most effective recent parliamentary leaders.
Record Legislative OutputUnder Among’s stewardship since 2022, the 11th Parliament passed a record number of bills — reportedly over 138 in total during the broader period including her deputy speakership, with accelerated processing times dropping from an average of 56 days to around 32 days. Landmark legislation included the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, amendments to petroleum and coffee laws, the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, and measures supporting oil sector development. These were not minor procedural matters; they addressed deeply divisive social issues, economic diversification, and national sovereignty — priorities repeatedly emphasized by the NRM government.
Critics may debate the content of these laws, but few can deny the efficiency and decisiveness with which Parliament operated under her guidance. Supporters rightly point out that this legislative surge advanced Uganda’s development agenda at a critical juncture, including preparations for oil production. Dismissing or tarnishing such service through dramatic midnight-style raids does a disservice to the institution she led and the voters who repeatedly elected her unopposed as Woman MP for Bukedea.
From Grass to Grace: Symbol of PossibilityAnita Among’s personal journey embodies the Ugandan dream. A trained accountant and lawyer, she transitioned from FDC roots into the NRM, serving effectively as Deputy Speaker before ascending to the Speakership following the untimely death of Jacob Oulanyah. She consolidated influence in the Teso sub-region and rose within party structures. Her story has inspired many, particularly women in politics, demonstrating that dedication and strategic alignment can yield results regardless of starting point.
The optics of “Maliza Ufisadi” — luxury vehicles seized (including a high-end Rolls-Royce whose purchase defenders link to her legitimate business interests, such as schools generating substantial revenue), properties raided, and movement reportedly restricted — paint a picture of selective enforcement. While no formal charges have been publicly detailed as of now, the timing, immediately after her withdrawal from the 12th Parliament Speakership race following reported consultations, raises questions about whether this is purely about corruption or internal political realignment.
Uganda has long grappled with corruption across many sectors and levels of government. A sincere “Maliza Ufisadi” should be systematic, transparent, and applied evenly — from top to bottom, without sparing sacred cows or appearing as a tool for settling scores. Singling out a high-profile figure who delivered tangible parliamentary results, while other longstanding allegations elsewhere linger unresolved, undermines public confidence in the campaign’s credibility.Service Deserves Due Process, Not SpectacleAnita Among served during challenging times: navigating post-COVID recovery, regional tensions, and domestic policy debates. She championed positions aligned with majority sentiments in Parliament and supported the NRM’s agenda. Even her defenders note her grassroots mobilization and constituency work.Public servants are not above scrutiny. Allegations must be investigated thoroughly, with evidence presented and due process followed in courts, not primarily through media leaks and dramatic operations. Turning a productive leader’s exit into a national spectacle risks demoralizing other officials and sending the message that political utility has an expiration date enforced by selective probes rather than elections or transparent accountability.
Uganda deserves a clean government. But “Maliza Ufisadi” must prove itself more than a headline-grabbing exercise if it is to honor, rather than disgrace, the contributions of leaders like Anita Among who helped steer the legislature through a productive term. True anti-corruption strengthens institutions; weaponized versions weaken them. As the dust settles on the 11th Parliament, history should remember Among’s record of delivery alongside any unresolved questions — not reduce her service to the vehicles in her driveway. This is an opinion piece reflecting arguments in defense of Anita Among’s contributions amid the ongoing investigations. All citizens, including public officials, remain subject to the law.
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