Related Articles
Former Trade Minister Amelia Kyambadde has confronted Mawokota North Member of Parliament Hillary Kiyaga, popularly known as Dr Hilderman, accusing him of repeatedly attacking her despite the support she offered him during his difficult times.
Kyambadde said people should always remember those who helped them when they had nothing, arguing that gratitude and respect should remain important even after one becomes successful.
Speaking at a public gathering, Kyambadde said she had tolerated criticism for a long time but had decided to speak out after what she described as continued public attacks from Dr Hilderman.
“I want to tell my fellow leaders, when someone helps you, always remember them. Don’t abuse them wherever you go,” Kyambadde said.
She directly addressed Dr Hilderman, who was present at the event, saying she was disappointed that he had turned against her despite the role she played in supporting him.
“Hon Kiyaga, I am tired of you abusing me because I played a role in uplifting you. I once helped you when you were extremely poor, but now you go around abusing me. Starting from today, I won’t accept that any more,” she said.
Kyambadde later apologised to those attending the event, saying she felt forced to respond because she could not allow someone to continue attacking her publicly while she remained silent.
She said she deserved respect as an elder, former government minister and leader who had spent years serving the country.
The remarks have renewed attention on the political relationship between Kyambadde and Dr Hilderman, who were once connected before becoming political opponents.
Kyambadde previously represented Mawokota North in Parliament under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) before losing the seat to Dr Hilderman in the 2021 elections.
Dr Hilderman, who contested on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, defeated Kyambadde and became the area’s Member of Parliament.
However, Kyambadde returned in the 2026 general elections and reclaimed the Mawokota North parliamentary seat.
Before joining active politics, Dr Hilderman was widely known as a musician and gained popularity through his songs.
Kyambadde had earlier supported his music and political efforts by paying him to compose a campaign song titled “Amelia,” which she used during her campaigns.
The former minister did not provide details about other forms of support she may have given him in the past.
Dr Hilderman was also present during the gathering where Kyambadde made the remarks, although he did not immediately issue a public response.
The disagreement between the two leaders reflects the changing nature of political relationships, where former allies can later find themselves competing against each other.
Reports indicate that Dr Hilderman was unhappy with the outcome of the 2026 election results and questioned the process, while Kyambadde’s supporters accused him of attempting to damage her image.
Kyambadde has now called for an end to what she described as disrespect, urging leaders to remember the people who supported them before they gained influence.
She said political differences should not become a reason for individuals to forget those who stood with them during their struggles.
The exchange between the two politicians has sparked conversations about loyalty, gratitude and the challenges that can arise when former supporters become rivals.
