“We Can’t Trust Someone Who Bleached” Northern Uganda Delegates Boycott Anita Among’s CEC Candidature Over Bleaching Concerns

As the National Resistance Movement (NRM) gears up for its National Delegates’ Conference, where a final vote will decide the next 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female) of the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), tensions continue to rise—particularly over the candidacy of current Speaker of Parliament, Annet Anita Among.

Delegates from Uganda’s Northern Region have emerged as a vocal bloc within the party, expressing serious reservations about Among’s bid. At a closed-door meeting in Gulu earlier this week, several local party leaders reportedly vowed not to support her candidacy, citing what they described as “cultural inconsistencies” and “image concerns” that, in their words, do not reflect the values of the region. According to them , Anita Among bleached and they can’t trust someone who doesn’t trust how God created her.

One senior delegate, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters: “We are proud of our African identity, and when a leader visibly distances themselves by bleaching, it sends the wrong message. Some of us don’t know if she wants to be African or a Mzungu. That’s not the kind of role model we want representing us on the CEC.”

The remarks appear to reference Among’s lightened skin tone—a subject that has previously surfaced in Uganda’s public discourse but remains controversial. While some view it as a private matter or non-issue, others, like the Northern delegates, argue it reflects deeper questions of identity and authenticity.

However, critics have condemned the remarks as personal and inappropriate in what is meant to be a political contest.

“We must be very careful not to reduce a woman’s leadership to her appearance,” said Dr. Mercy Akello, a political analyst and women’s rights advocate.

“These comments risk crossing into colorism and detract from the real issues, like competence, loyalty, and service.”

Anita Among has not publicly responded to the comments. Her campaign team maintains that her record speaks for itself, pointing to her leadership in Parliament, her role in consolidating support for the NRM among opposition-leaning MPs, and her endorsements from key regions like Kampala and Western Uganda.

Rebecca Kadaga’s supporters have largely avoided personal attacks but continue to emphasize her long-standing service to the party and the nation. “Kadaga has never had to prove her loyalty to Uganda or the NRM. Her record speaks louder than any image,” said one Busoga delegate.

President Museveni has so far declined to take sides, calling for a free and fair vote. The party has confirmed that the delegates’ conference will proceed as planned, with both candidates cleared to contest.

As the date draws near, observers say the race is no longer just about two individuals—it’s becoming a litmus test for the soul and future identity of the NRM itself.