Kawalya Abubaker Set To Become Next Leader Of Opposition, Anita Among Promises Him Support

A new wave of political intrigue is steadily taking shape within the opposition ranks, with insiders pointing to behind-the-scenes maneuvering that could reshape the race for Leader of Opposition (LoP). Multiple sources indicate that Anita Among, the Speaker of Parliament, is quietly backing Kawalya Abubaker in his bid for the influential parliamentary position.

Kawalya, who is currently embroiled in disagreements with his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), is said to have intensified his mobilisation efforts ahead of the official announcement of the LoP. According to individuals familiar with the unfolding developments, he has been holding a series of discreet consultations with fellow NUP Members of Parliament, seeking to consolidate support and secure crucial endorsements before the process formally begins.

Highly placed sources allege that Kawalya—often described as a close ally of Anita Among—has vowed to mount a formidable and highly strategic challenge for the position. Those privy to the discussions suggest that his campaign is not merely symbolic, but carefully calculated and backed by influential figures.

Adding to the intrigue are unverified claims that Anita Among may have offered up to Shs5 billion to bankroll mobilisation efforts aimed at persuading opposition MPs to rally behind Kawalya. While these allegations remain unconfirmed, they have already generated unease and quiet murmurs within sections of the opposition, deepening suspicion and intensifying internal tensions.

In a move that has further fuelled speculation, Kawalya is said to have facilitated a private meeting between Anita Among and Nakibinge. During this reportedly closed-door engagement, several strategic political matters were discussed. Sources suggest that Nakibinge encouraged subtle backing for a Muslim candidate to assume the Leader of Opposition role, with Kawalya emerging as the preferred option. This development comes at a time when concerns have reportedly been mounting over Muwanga Kivumbi’s performance in Parliament, despite him initially being presented as the opposition’s front-runner for the post.

Kawalya’s political journey has long been characterised by calculated shifts and strategic repositioning. In 2018, while serving at KCCA City Hall, he joined the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and successfully secured the Speaker position. At the time, Buruhan, an NRM member, assumed the role of Deputy Speaker—a development that allegedly cost the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), which held the majority then, both leadership slots.

In 2021, Kawalya again found himself at the centre of controversy when he was accused of covertly working with NRM councillors in Rubaga Division to unseat a NUP-backed candidate from the speakership. Critics argue that his apparent ability to navigate both sides of the political divide has been central to his political endurance. Supporters, however, counter that this flexibility reflects political pragmatism and a sharp strategic mind capable of surviving Uganda’s shifting political currents.

As these claims, counterclaims, and strategic alliances continue to surface, the contest for the Leader of Opposition position appears poised to become one of the most closely watched political battles in recent months.

This remains a developing story. We shall continue to provide updates as more information reaches our editorial desk.