By Eye Media Reporter | Iganga | June 11, 2025
In a dramatic political twist, veteran journalist and longtime opposition figure Simon Muyanga Lutaaya has officially joined the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), marking an end to his years of vocal criticism against the establishment.
Muyanga, who has for decades been an ardent supporter of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and a known confidant of opposition stalwart Dr. Kizza Besigye, made the surprise announcement on Tuesday during a leaders’ meeting in Iganga presided over by Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among.
Clad in yellow and welcomed with jubilant applause, Muyanga declared that he was ready to work with the NRM, citing the Speaker’s visionary leadership and inclusiveness as key factors in his decision.
“I have watched and listened carefully. Rt. Hon. Among has not only changed the face of Parliament but has brought a refreshing sense of purpose and direction in this country,” Muyanga said.
For many years, Muyanga was synonymous with FDC politics in Busoga and nationally. His close ties with Dr. Besigye were so deep that he named one of his children after the opposition icon. He twice contested for Member of Parliament in Kaliro District under the FDC ticket, albeit unsuccessfully.
His defection to the ruling party stunned many in attendance, not only because of his past political leanings but also his once-fiery anti-NRM commentary across various media platforms.
NRM supporters, especially those from Kaliro and surrounding districts, celebrated the move, describing it as a significant boost to the party’s image and proof of its expanding appeal.
Speaker Among, who is currently campaigning for the position of 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female) on the NRM Central Executive Committee, applauded Muyanga’s courage and called on other leaders to put the nation above political bitterness.
“We are not enemies in politics. When hearts are opened to truth and service, even the strongest critics can become great allies,” Among said.
Muyanga’s switch signals yet another political realignment in Busoga, with analysts suggesting that his media influence and former opposition stature could now serve the ruling party’s strategic agenda going into the 2026 elections.
