The First Deputy Prime Minister and Kamuli District Woman MP, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, yesterday unveiled Mastula Namatovu, the NRM flag bearer for Kamuli Municipality, as her political successor — ending years of speculation over who she has been grooming to take over her legacy.
The revelation came during a colourful rally at Buwanume Primary School, organized to celebrate Namatovu’s successful nomination for Parliament. The event drew hundreds of NRM supporters, local leaders and mobilizers who cheered Kadaga’s decision and pledged to rally behind Namatovu in the upcoming election.
Kadaga, fondly known as Mama Busoga, used the moment to reflect on her long political journey and the development strides achieved in Busoga under her watch. She reminded residents of her continued commitment to empowering ordinary people through initiatives such as providing startup capital for small businesses, paying school fees for needy children, and creating jobs through her investments — including a taxi business that employs hundreds across the region.
She also highlighted her role in helping many young people from Busoga secure opportunities abroad and in government institutions, noting that her goal has always been to uplift lives, not just win elections.
Kadaga’s endorsement of Namatovu is widely seen as a signal of generational transition in Kamuli politics. The veteran legislator, who has served in Parliament since 1989, has held several key positions including State Minister for Regional Cooperation, Deputy Speaker, Speaker of Parliament, and currently First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs.
Over the years, Kadaga has earned immense respect in Busoga, where she is revered for her accessibility, mentorship of young leaders, and tireless advocacy for women’s empowerment. Her influence has made her not just a political leader but a regional matriarch — the reason many affectionately call her Mama Busoga.
As Kamuli enters a new political season, her open endorsement of Namatovu appears to set the stage for continuity — keeping the NRM base united while ensuring that her legacy remains firmly rooted in the region’s future leadership.
