A cohort of National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporters has submitted a petition to the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), aiming to address the prevailing confusion surrounding the selection of the party’s flag-bearer for the 2026 presidential elections.
Comprising ministers, presidential advisors, district chairpersons, and youth leaders from academic institutions, the group urged the top party organ to clarify its stance on the emergence of factions within the NRM, which have begun asserting their leaders as potential presidential candidates for the upcoming elections. This factionalism, they asserted, has led to internal discord and disunity.
Identifying themselves as patriots, activists, and adherents of the Ugandan and African revolution, the petitioners expressed deep concern over the escalating disunity, hopelessness, and chaos within the NRM. They particularly highlighted their unease with the recent formation of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), formerly known as the MK Movement.
PLU, led by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the First Son, attracted the attendance of influential figures within the NRM, including Captain Mike Mukula and several cabinet ministers and Members of Parliament, during its launch. However, the petitioners voiced apprehension about what they perceived as populist and adventurist tendencies within the Movement, exemplified by premature declarations of presidential candidacy for the 2026 elections.
During a symposium held at Kati Kati Restaurant along Lugogo Bypass, the petitioners underscored their observations of disruptive trends within the party. Led by David Mafabi, senior presidential advisor on special duties, they emphasized the need for clarity and unity within the NRM, asserting that the presidential post remains reserved for President Yoweri Museveni in the upcoming elections.
While acknowledging PLU’s right to organize and articulate its views, the petitioners cautioned against the group’s unilateral declarations of presidential candidacy, which have fueled confusion and unrest within the party ranks. They reiterated their unwavering support for President Museveni and emphasized the necessity of adherence to established party procedures in nominating candidates.
Amidst calls for unity and adherence to party protocols, the petitioners urged CEC to rein in members who have contributed to factionalism, including those associated with PLU. They stressed the importance of maintaining focus on the NRM’s core principles of socio-economic transformation and wealth creation, urging swift action to prevent further division within the party.
Peace Mutuuzo, tasked with presenting the petition to CEC, reiterated the group’s commitment to the NRM’s ideology and called for decisive leadership in addressing the prevailing confusion. Emphasizing the need for a transparent and inclusive candidate selection process, she affirmed the unity of purpose within the NRM and its collective belief in advancing its agenda.
