A secret survey, reportedly funded by influential figures within the inner sanctum of the state, has indicated that President Yoweri Museveni’s success in the upcoming 2026 presidential election hinges significantly on NRM-leaning independent candidates for parliamentary positions. The findings suggest that in numerous constituencies and districts, the NRM flag bearers lack the essential grassroots support and connection with the electorate, while independent candidates are deeply rooted in their communities.
The survey highlights that over 70% of NRM flag bearers were declared through dubious processes, which may severely hamper their chances in the elections. This issue is particularly acute in regions like Buganda and Busoga, where a significant number of NRM flag bearers appear to be disconnected from local NRM supporters. Conversely, independent candidates have demonstrated a strong rapport with voters, engaging in grassroots mobilization efforts in villages across the country for both President Museveni and their own campaigns.
More than 210 Members of Parliament from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) who faced defeat in the party’s recent primaries have declared their intention to run as independents, despite the party leadership’s calls for them to withdraw their candidacies.
In addition to these MPs, approximately 220 NRM-leaning independents who are not incumbent MPs but participated in NRM Primaries and their victories cheated, have also expressed their interest in contesting as NRM Independents. These individuals are viewed as even more popular and robust,with deeper ties to the electorate than the incumbent MPs who lost.
The survey further reveals that a majority of NRM supporters who participated in the party’s primaries feel they were cheated by influential cartels within the NRM, who allegedly collaborated with the NRM Electoral Commission and the Electoral Dispute Tribunal to uphold illegitimate flag bearers.
In Buganda and Busoga, the political landscape appears to be shaping up as a contest primarily between NRM-leaning independents and opposition candidates, with NRM flag bearers largely absent from the competition unless they are legitimate winners. Compounding these challenges are the perceived arrogance of NRM leaders from the party secretariat, who have openly criticized the NRM-leaning independents, further alienating grassroots supporters and creating a rift within the party.
Concerns regarding the implications of sidelining NRM-leaning independents have been raised, with calls for their inclusion in party activities, particularly during President Museveni’s campaign visits to various districts. Ignoring these independents could prove detrimental not only to the NRM but also to Museveni’s prospects for re-election.
During a recent press briefing, the disgruntled legislators accused the NRM of orchestrating sham primaries characterized by vote rigging, intimidation, and corruption. While reaffirming their loyalty to President Museveni and the NRM, they expressed their belief that they had been unfairly disenfranchised and vowed to give voters the opportunity to elect their rightful leaders. One of the MPs, highlighted the historical context of Museveni’s fight against vote rigging, lamenting that such practices have now infiltrated his own party.
The MPs argued that the NRM’s failure to conduct credible primaries undermines its authority to prevent members from running as independents. They emphasized that the Constitution grants them the right to contest independently given the circumstances. Despite their grievances, many MPs insisted they would actively campaign for President Museveni during the general election.
In conclusion, the NRM-leaning independents have expressed unwavering support for President Museveni, asserting they will work diligently to ensure his victory in the upcoming elections. They view the president as a leader who is accessible and aligned with the people, contrasting sharply with the perceived arrogance of some NRM party leaders.
The survey indicates that approximately 55% of the next parliament could consist of NRM-leaning independents, underscoring their potential to significantly influence the political landscape in the upcoming election.
[10/3, 7:14 AM] +256 774 992426: *Former Senior NRM Government Leaders subjected to open disrespect and disregard at NRM Functions by Posturing NRM Mobilisers- Public Opinions Report*
In recent months, a troubling trend has emerged during National Resistance Movement (NRM) functions, drawing significant public attention and concern. A series of videos capturing interactions at these events have showcased a disheartening pattern. Former senior leaders of the party and government, including H.E.Gilbert Bukenya,H.E. Edward Ssekandi, H.E.Specioza Kazibwe, Rt Hon Amama Mbabazi, Rt Hon Ruhakana Rugunda,etc have been subjected to open disrespect and disregard.
The NRM Secretariat is led by a highly noble leader Richard Todwongo but he is also too patient. It’s high time the party secretary General takes necessary steps to safeguard the foemer senior leaders from masqueraders. The president is also concerned. He keeps wondering looking at NRM Mobilisers made to sit with former senior leaders hence making life hard for them to freely interact.we need dedicated people to be in charge of the protocol of former senior Leaders. Mobilisers should sit with fellow NRM Mobilisers.
The atmosphere at these gatherings has been marred by the presence of self-proclaimed presidential Advisors and NRM Mobilisers who, instead of honoring the veteran leaders, have chosen to loiter and disrupt them to the extent of over touching them. Witnesses have reported incidents where these individuals,often referred to as “NRM Mobilisers and Presidential Advisors have interrupted important discussions of senior foemer leaders, barging into conversations between former vice presidents, and engaging in loud, distracting and disrespecting behavior. One particularly egregious instance involved an advisor who rudely interrupted a dialogue between two former vice presidents,disregarding the decorum expected at such high-profile events.
This blatant disrespect raises serious questions about the NRM Secretariat’s commitment to maintaining protocol and decorum at their functions. The former leaders who paved the way for the party’s legacy deserve not only recognition but also protection from such unseemly behavior for posturing NRM Mobilisers.Their contributions to the party and the nation should be honored rather than undermined by the antics of those who appear to misunderstand their roles. Imagine these former senior leaders are made to sit with posturing NRM Mobilisers and masquerading Presidential Advisors.This is a shame and total disregard of strategic management and protocols.
There is a growing sentiment among the public that the current state of affairs must change. Many are calling on the NRM leadership and the Special Forces Command to take immediate action to address this issue. It is essential for the party’s image and the morale of its veteran leaders that a clear distinction be made between respect and disorder. Let us protect our former senior leaders from posturing NRM Mobilisers.
The voices of the public demand that the dignity of former leaders be safeguarded and that events are conducted with the respect and honor they deserve. As the NRM moves forward, it is crucial that it not only remembers its past but also treats its pioneers with the reverence they have earned through years of service.
As we reflect on these incidents, one can only hope for a future where respect and protocol are prioritized, ensuring that all members of the NRM, past and present, are treated with the dignity they deserve.
The Author is Buyinza Adam Luzindana,Passionate on Strategic Engagement and Diplomacy, Team Leader of Public Opinions ,a businessman,a member of Community Peace Defenders. He is a member of the Mass Whatsapp Informational Dissemination Initiative on Achievements of H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,Tel:+256701992426
