Former Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has made her first public appearance in 83 days after joining a parliamentary plenary session virtually through Zoom, bringing an end to weeks of speculation about her whereabouts and absence from public events.
The Bukedea District Woman Member of Parliament appeared on screen during Tuesday’s plenary sitting held on August 4, 2026, which was chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa. Her appearance attracted significant attention as it marked the first time she had been seen publicly since reports emerged about investigations and restrictions surrounding her movements.
Although Among attended the sitting virtually, she did not take part in the debates or make any contribution on the floor of Parliament. However, her presence was considered important because it showed that she was still participating in parliamentary activities despite her long absence from public engagements.
The virtual appearance also reduced concerns that she could lose her parliamentary seat due to absenteeism. Under Article 83(1)(d) of Uganda’s Constitution and parliamentary rules, legislators who miss 15 consecutive sittings without official permission risk losing their seats.
Before Tuesday’s appearance, Among had missed several major parliamentary events, including the opening activities of the 12th Parliament, election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, the State of the Nation Address and committee assignments.
The law requires Members of Parliament who are unable to attend sittings to obtain written permission from the Speaker or provide acceptable reasons for their absence through the appropriate parliamentary procedures.
Parliament Clerk Adolf Mwesige had earlier reminded legislators during the orientation of the 12th Parliament about the importance of attending sittings and following the required procedures whenever they are unable to be physically present.
Among’s virtual participation therefore became significant because it demonstrated her continued engagement with Parliament and helped address questions surrounding her prolonged absence.
Video footage and images from the plenary showed Among appearing on screen alongside other lawmakers who were attending the session. Details visible behind her suggested she was joining from a private location.
Her appearance comes amid reports that she has spent months away from public events following investigations involving allegations of corruption and illicit enrichment. Among has not publicly commented in detail about the investigations.
Reports indicate that security agencies carried out searches at some of her properties, including her residence in Nakasero, Munyonyo home and parliamentary office as part of inquiries.
The investigations reportedly involved multiple government agencies, including the Inspectorate of Government, after concerns were raised over alleged financial dealings and ownership of expensive assets.
Among, who served as Speaker of the 11th Parliament, has not been charged in court over the allegations. The Inspectorate of Government reportedly completed its investigations and submitted findings to relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, several parliamentary staff members linked to separate allegations involving misuse of parliamentary resources have faced disciplinary action and court proceedings.
The appearance of Among through a virtual platform also renewed discussions about Parliament’s rules regarding online attendance and whether lawmakers can participate in proceedings while away from the chamber.
Parliament officials have previously confirmed that virtual participation is allowed under the Rules of Procedure, especially after digital systems were introduced during the COVID-19 period.
The rules allow legislators to join proceedings remotely through approved digital platforms, although such participation requires authorization from the Speaker.
Acting Director of Communications and Public Affairs Grace Gidudu explained that MPs who wish to attend virtually can be provided with access to online parliamentary sessions.
However, questions remain over whether Among received official authorization from the current Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, before joining Tuesday’s sitting virtually.
The Clerk to Parliament declined to comment on whether formal approval had been granted, while other officials were unavailable for immediate comment.
Among’s return to the public eye, even through a virtual platform, is expected to attract further political debate as observers continue to follow developments surrounding her political future and ongoing investigations.
Her appearance also comes at a time when Parliament continues with its new term, with lawmakers settling into committees and beginning legislative work under the 12th Parliament.
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