This comes at a time when the Speaker is already facing backlash over reports that she purchased a Rolls-Royce worth approximately sh3.7bn.
Uganda’s Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, has sparked widespread discussion online after reports emerged that she attended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony dressed in a luxury designer outfit valued at over sh42m.
According to fashion enthusiasts and online commentators, the Speaker appeared in an elegant Oscar de la Renta Porcelain Flower embroidered ensemble reportedly sourced from the luxury fashion house’s official collection.
The outfit allegedly featured a designer dress listed at $6,490 USD, approximately sh24m, paired with a matching embroidered jacket priced at $4,990 USD, estimated at around sh18.5m. Combined, the full outfit is said to be worth about $11,480 USD before taxes and shipping costs — translating to nearly sh42.5m.
Photos and details of the outfit quickly circulated across social media platforms, triggering mixed reactions among Ugandans. While some praised the Speaker’s fashion sense and elegant appearance at the high-profile state function, others questioned the timing of such extravagant fashion statements amid ongoing public criticism over government spending and economic challenges facing ordinary citizens.
The development has further fueled online conversations about the lifestyle of public officials and the growing public scrutiny surrounding luxury spending by political leaders.
Despite the criticism, supporters of Anita Among defended her choice of attire, arguing that personal fashion choices should not overshadow her official duties or contributions to Parliament.
This comes at a time when the Speaker is already facing backlash over reports that she purchased a Rolls-Royce worth approximately sh3.7bn. Many Ugandans, especially her critics, have since questioned her source of wealth, with some linking the extravagant spending to ongoing corruption allegations and scandals in parliament.
The swearing-in ceremony attracted several top government officials, diplomats, celebrities, and invited guests, making it one of the country’s most closely watched national events.