TRIPLE A ON SICK BED: Nsereko’s emotional appeal over Anita Among’s reported ill health ignites national debate

Questions surrounding the health of former Speaker Anita Annet Among have ignited widespread discussion across the country after former Kampala Central MP Muhammad Nsereko claimed she is battling a serious illness and appealed for authorities to allow her to seek specialized medical treatment.

Nsereko, speaking in a video that has since circulated widely on social media, alleged that he had recently visited the former Speaker and found her in poor health. According to him, Among’s legs were severely swollen and she was unable to move comfortably. He further claimed that she was suffering from a blood clot in one of her legs and urged government authorities to prioritize her health regardless of political differences.

The claims have not been independently verified, and Among has not publicly commented on the allegations or disclosed any medical diagnosis.

NSEREKO’S EMOTIONAL APPEAL

In the video, Nsereko is seen speaking in a sombre tone as he appeals for compassion. He says political disagreements should not prevent someone from accessing medical care.

He argues that if the allegations about Among’s condition are true, leaders should intervene before it is too late rather than waiting to celebrate her contributions after her death.The former legislator also criticizes fellow Members of Parliament for remaining largely silent despite allegedly being aware of her condition.

MIXED REACTIONS ACROSS X

The video quickly generated thousands of reactions on X, exposing deep political divisions over Among’s legacy. Some users expressed sympathy and wished her a speedy recovery.One supporter identifying as “Rt. Hon. Annet Anita Among Foot Soldier 001” appealed to authorities to allow the former Speaker to access specialized treatment, saying she remained in their prayers.

Political commentator Namboozo Immy described the situation as an example of how “the deep state builds and destroys its own,” while wishing Among a peaceful recovery.Others insisted that access to healthcare is a fundamental human right regardless of political affiliation. Lawyer Ernest Serubiri wrote that “health is a right,” while several users argued that if she requires treatment, she should receive it without unnecessary restrictions.

Mucunguzi Boaz similarly hoped she recovers, adding that Uganda’s national referral hospital remains available for treatment.

CRITICS POINT TO UGANDA’S HEALTH SYSTEM

The reported illness also reignited debate about Uganda’s healthcare system.Philosopher Jim Spire Ssentongo questioned why senior government officials often seek treatment abroad whenever they become seriously ill.

He argued that such decisions unintentionally undermine public confidence in Uganda’s own hospitals.

Numerous users echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that if the former Speaker requires treatment, facilities such as Mulago National Referral Hospital should be capable of managing her condition.Others mentioned hospitals in Bukedea, Nsambya and Bombo, arguing that leaders should demonstrate confidence in public institutions they have overseen.

OTHERS SHOW LITTLE SYMPATHY

Not all reactions were sympathetic. Some critics argued that Among, while serving as Speaker, presided over Parliament during periods when opposition legislators and political prisoners complained about inadequate medical care.

Several users cited past political confrontations, saying they found it difficult to empathize because of decisions taken during her tenure.

Others referenced controversies surrounding government spending on healthcare projects, arguing that Uganda’s leaders should invest more in local medical facilities.A few comments celebrated reports of her illness or dismissed them entirely. Such remarks drew criticism from users who argued that illness should never become a subject of political celebration.

CALLS FOR COMPASSION

Despite the polarized debate, many Ugandans urged restraint. Sarah Adong prayed for her recovery, saying she deserved another chance.

Growth of Wealth similarly appealed for immediate medical attention. Deborah Braund said everyone has a right to life and should receive appropriate treatment regardless of political differences. Several contributors emphasized that political disagreements should not erase basic humanity.

PSYCHOLOGICAL TOLL OF POLITICAL DOWNFALL

Mental health professionals frequently note that dramatic public falls from positions of influence can carry significant psychological consequences. While no one involved in Among’s case has confirmed any mental health diagnosis, experts generally agree that public humiliation, legal challenges and sudden loss of power can create intense emotional stress.

Counsellors say individuals undergoing such experiences often benefit from strong family support, trusted friendships and professional counselling.Physiotherapists also note that conditions affecting mobility, including swelling of the legs, can have numerous possible causes. Determining the exact cause requires medical examination, and no diagnosis should be assumed based solely on public reports or photographs.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY SUPPORT

Health professionals generally stress that family members often play an important role in supporting patients experiencing serious illness or emotional distress.

Close relatives can help ensure patients attend medical appointments, comply with treatment and maintain emotional wellbeing during difficult periods.

POLITICAL POWER AND LIFE AFTER OFFICE

The discussion has also revived debate about how politicians adjust after leaving powerful offices. Some commentators contrasted different experiences of former senior leaders, noting that remaining socially active and maintaining friendships outside politics can help ease the transition into private life.

Others observed that political influence can disappear rapidly, making it important for public officials to prepare for life beyond office.

PREPARING FOR LIFE AFTER POWER

Mental health experts and counsellors say one of the biggest challenges facing politicians is adjusting to life after leaving high office. They argue that the transition from wielding enormous influence to becoming an ordinary citizen can be emotionally taxing, especially for leaders whose identities become closely tied to public office.

Counsellor Philis Namatovu says politicians should deliberately prepare themselves for life beyond power by maintaining genuine friendships, pursuing personal interests and remaining connected to ordinary communities.”Political office is temporary. The people around you while you hold power may not necessarily remain when the office is gone. Leaders should build relationships that are not dependent on their positions,” she says.

Namatovu points to the experiences of Uganda’s former Vice Presidents as examples of two different transitions after leaving office.Former Vice President Prof. Gilbert Bukenya has previously spoken publicly about the loneliness that followed his departure from government. In media interviews after leaving office, Bukenya recounted how many of the people who regularly surrounded him disappeared almost overnight.

“When I lost the vice presidency, I was deserted by my close friends,” Bukenya said in one interview, illustrating how political influence can shape personal relationships.According to Namatovu, Bukenya’s experience serves as a reminder that political friendships are not always permanent and that leaders should invest in relationships built on trust rather than office.

By contrast, former Vice President Edward Ssekandi is frequently cited by counsellors as someone who adjusted more smoothly to life after public office. Friends describe him as maintaining a relatively modest lifestyle and continuing to socialize with people outside the political arena.

“He remained accessible and continued living an active social life. He did not isolate himself after leaving office,” Namatovu says. “That is an important lesson for leaders—that power comes and goes, but your health, friendships and peace of mind should remain priorities.”She says leaders who continue engaging with communities, family and longtime friends often cope better with the emotional pressures associated with retirement from public office.

As public discussion continues over former Speaker Anita Among’s reported health challenges, counsellors say the broader lesson extends beyond any one individual. They argue that every public official should plan for the day when political office ends, maintain meaningful relationships outside politics and seek professional mental health support whenever faced with overwhelming personal or public challenges.”The office belongs to the State,” Namatovu says. “Your life, your family and your wellbeing belong to you. Leaders should never wait until they lose power to discover who their real friends are.”

AWAITING OFFICIAL CLARIFICATION

As speculation continues online, there has been no official medical statement from Anita Among, her family or her representatives confirming the claims made by Nsereko.Without such confirmation, many of the assertions circulating on social media remain unverified.

Nevertheless, the debate has reopened broader conversations about healthcare, political loyalty, compassion and how Uganda treats leaders after they leave positions of power.Whether supporters or critics, many Ugandans appear united on one principle: serious illness should be addressed with humanity, verified information and respect for the dignity of every individual.

Author Profile

Stephen Kasozi Muwambi: Mr. Stephen Kasozi Muwambi is a seasoned crime investigative writer, majoring in judicial-based stories. His two decades’ experience as a senior investigative journalist has made him one of the best to reckon on in Uganda. He can also be reached via [email protected]