Kampala | The Eye Media – Former Speaker of Parliament Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga has dismissed as false a message circulating on social media claiming she threatened to abandon the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) following her loss in the just-concluded party elections.
Kadaga, who this week lost the powerful 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female) seat in the Central Executive Committee (CEC) to current Speaker Anita Annet Among, clarified through her verified X (Twitter) account that she has no intention of quitting the party.
“Dear countrymen and women, I have seen this message circulating. Please note that this is a fake message,” Kadaga posted, attaching a screenshot of the statement she disowned.
The false message had alleged that Kadaga, while thanking her supporters, accused the NRM electoral process of “massive voter bribery and intimidation” and described the contest as a “gross abuse of office.”
Standing her ground
By swiftly dismissing the claims, Kadaga sought to quell speculation that her bruising defeat had driven her to contemplate exiting the NRM. Instead, she reaffirmed her loyalty, noting that her political battles will remain within the party framework.
Fake news in politics
Kadaga’s rebuttal comes at a time when fake news has increasingly become a weapon in Uganda’s political contests. Analysts warn that such fabricated statements are often designed to inflame divisions, tarnish reputations, or exploit the emotions of party supporters.
What next for Kadaga?
Despite the setback, Kadaga remains a towering figure in Ugandan politics. Observers say her focus now will likely be on rebuilding her political base in Busoga and asserting relevance within the NRM as the country edges closer to the 2026 general elections.
For now, she maintains her stance: defeated but loyal.
“I never said it,” she emphasized, distancing herself from the viral claims.
