KAMPALA – The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, on Wednesday met top leaders of the Women’s League of the National Resistance Movement, including chairperson Adrine Kobusingye and treasurer Ann Ruyondo Lumumba, in the wake of escalating internal wrangles over financial accountability.
The high-level meeting comes at a time when the Women’s League leadership is under intense scrutiny following revelations of alleged inconsistencies in the management of more than UGX 1.5 billion meant for mobilization activities.
Following the engagement, Among struck a conciliatory tone, emphasizing unity and shared purpose among the women leaders.
“It was a memorable occasion spent with my esteemed sisters, the leaders of the Women’s League of the NRM. We exchanged valuable ideas on potential collaborative efforts to promote our common interests and uphold the core values of women,” she said.
“I extend my best wishes and God’s blessings to them all as they lead,” she added.
Mounting pressure over funds
The meeting follows the emergence of internal documents pointing to divisions and possible financial irregularities within the league.
According to details contained in a letter authored by Lumumba, UGX 1.197 billion was mobilised to facilitate women’s participation in a rally in support of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
However, the treasurer indicates that the funds were largely handled directly by Kobusingye, limiting access and oversight by the treasury.
The breakdown highlights several contentious items, including large sums reportedly withdrawn in cash, some funds not accounted for, and others distributed among executive members.
Particular concern has been raised over a UGX 180 million payment made to Hotel La Vena—reportedly linked to Kobusingye—for catering services during a January mobilisation event, raising conflict-of-interest questions.
Additional funds amounting to UGX 390 million for a prayer breakfast were also reportedly handled outside the treasury structures.
Push for unity
Analysts say Among’s decision to meet both Kobusingye and Lumumba signals an attempt to ease tensions and restore cohesion within the Women’s League as pressure mounts for transparency.
The controversy has sparked debate within party circles, with some leaders calling for a thorough audit, while others caution against internal divisions that could weaken mobilization efforts.
Efforts to obtain an official response from Kobusingye on the allegations were ongoing by press time.
The unfolding situation places the NRM Women’s League at a critical juncture, as it navigates accountability concerns while trying to maintain unity within its ranks.
