NRM Candidates Who Lost Primaries Cleared to Run as Independents

KAMPALA — Former Minister for the Presidency Esther Mbulakubuza Mbayo has revealed that 126 NRM sitting Members of Parliament who lost in the party primaries have been cleared to contest as independent candidates in the 2026–2031 general elections.

Addressing a press conference at Parliament on Tuesday, Mbayo said the MPs recently held a meeting with NRM party chairman and President Yoweri Museveni in Arua, where they discussed several issues concerning their political future.

According to Mbayo, the meeting resolved that those who lost in the NRM primaries can freely stand as independents while maintaining their support for the party. The MPs also unanimously agreed to back President Museveni as the NRM flag bearer in the next presidential election.

“This was a constructive engagement aimed at promoting party unity and ensuring no member is sidelined. Those who lost have been allowed to return as independents while still supporting the party leadership,” Mbayo said.

The decision is expected to strengthen NRM’s political base ahead of the 2026 general elections.