Rebecca Kadaga has been active on the political scene since 1989 when she joined the National Resistance Council as a representative of the women of Kamuli district. Throughout that time, she has held several ministerial portfolios and offices, culminating in her election as speaker of Parliament in 2011.
At 68 years of age, Kadaga is not the oldest politician in Uganda, but she is the longest-serving MP of the current batch of legislators (Moses Ali, the oldest legislator, was briefly thrown out of Parliament between 2006 and 2011).
Yet over the weekend, Kadaga assured in an interview that she is ready and willing to defend her position as Second National Vice Chairperson of the NRM at the next internal election.
The optics of the interview were not good. Yes, she still had the determination in her voice and some level of resilience that made her a formidable politician, but her physical state told another story.
To make matters worse, she is likely to face off with Speaker Anita Among in what could be a grueling, stressful race. Can she go the distance? Does she still have anything new to offer? We don’t think so, and here are our reasons.
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Need for fresh leadership.
Kadaga’s political career, like we mentioned, began in 1989 when she was elected as the NRC Woman member for Kamuli. Over the years, she has held various significant positions, including Minister of State for Regional Cooperation, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Deputy Speaker, and Speaker of Parliament. Her tenure as Deputy Speaker and Speaker spanned two decades, from 2001 to 2021.
While her experience is invaluable, leadership renewal is essential for any democratic institution. By stepping aside, Kadaga would pave the way for emerging leaders who can bring fresh energy and innovation to the NRM and the Ugandan political landscape.
Health concerns
In recent years, there have been reports suggesting that Kadaga’s health has been faltering. The deterioration is visible. While specific details of her ailment are scarce, it is common knowledge that the demands of high political office can take a toll on one’s health. Some of her admirers have argued that Kadaga should prioritize her well-being going forward. As she grapples with health issues, she may find it challenging to meet the rigorous demands of her position, potentially impacting decision-making and overall performance.
NRM’s internal dynamicsÂ
The NRM, like any longstanding political party, must navigate internal dynamics and the need for generational transition. Kadaga’s decision to contest against Among, a relatively younger politician who currently serves as the Speaker of Parliament, highlights the generational shift within the party.
By stepping aside, Kadaga would demonstrate a commitment to nurturing new leadership, ensuring the NRM remains relevant and adaptive to contemporary challenges. This gesture would also mitigate potential factionalism within the party, promoting unity and cohesion.
LegacyÂ
Kadaga’s contributions to Ugandan politics are monumental. She broke glass ceilings as the first female Speaker and has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights and representation. By choosing to retire gracefully, Kadaga can preserve her legacy, ensuring that her decades of service are remembered for their positive impact rather than recent contentious episodes. This move would allow her to mentor upcoming leaders, sharing her wealth of experience without the burdens of active political office.
Public perception
Public perception plays a pivotal role in the legitimacy of political figures. There is a growing sentiment among Ugandans that long-serving politicians should make way for new leaders. From President Museveni to his ministers like Moses Ali, Kahinda Otafiire, and now Kadaga, the decision to retire could bolster public trust in the NRM, showcasing the party’s commitment to renewal and responsiveness to the electorate’s desires.
Personal fulfillmentÂ
Retirement from active politics does not signify the end of one’s influence or contributions to society. Kadaga has the opportunity to channel her experience and passion into other avenues, such as international diplomacy or civil society. These platforms would allow her to continue impacting society positively without the pressures and constraints of political office.
In short, Kadaga’s illustrious career has significantly shaped Uganda’s political landscape. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to many, especially women in leadership. However, the current political climate, coupled with personal health considerations and the natural progression of leadership, suggests that it may be time for her to step aside.
