NRM in Rukiga Strengthens Unity as 17 Independent Candidates Withdraw Ahead of Museveni’s Visit

RUKIGA, UGANDA – The political atmosphere in Rukiga district has shifted significantly after nearly 17 independent candidates, many of whom were originally NRM-leaning, voluntarily withdrew from various electoral races. The move, widely celebrated within the National Resistance Movement (NRM), marks a renewed sense of unity and strategic consolidation ahead of the 2025 campaign season.

The development was confirmed on Saturday, November 15, 2025, following a closed-door meeting held at the Satellite Hotel in Muhanga Town Council. The gathering, convened by Eng. Jonard Akiiki, the NRM Vice Chairperson for the Western Region, was part of a broader plan to streamline support and prepare for the highly anticipated visit of the party’s presidential candidate, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

Before stepping into the meeting, Eng. Akiiki addressed the press, stressing the party’s commitment to harmonizing efforts across all levels.
“We are set to hold several meetings with the party candidates to streamline and harmonize their campaigns. All preparations are underway to ensure that President Museveni’s visit to the district and the entire region goes smoothly as he garners votes and presents the party flag bearers,” he said.

Inside the meeting room, party leaders worked to persuade independent candidates—most of whom were longtime NRM loyalists—to rally behind the official flag bearers. Their withdrawal was presented as an act of loyalty and a step toward eliminating internal competition that often dilutes the party’s vote.

The Rukiga District Woman MP NRM Flag Bearer, Hon. Dr. Sylvia Alinaitwe, welcomed the move with relief. She noted that the presence of multiple independents, especially those formerly aligned with the NRM, had fractured the party’s support base.
“This development boosts support for the party, relieving the strain of securing seats. Having a number of independents, mostly from the party, divides our supporters, thereby reducing the percentage the party flag bearer might have achieved,” she said.

Her sentiments were echoed by Hon. Kiconco Patrick Katabazi, the Rukiga County MP aspirant, who praised the effort that went into mobilizing independents to return to the fold. He reaffirmed the district’s readiness to host President Museveni for the party’s campaigns and the official presentation of NRM candidates.

Similarly, Hon. Simon Mutebi Rwamagyenda, the LC V Chairperson NRM Flag Bearer for Rukiga, emphasized that the withdrawals were a crucial step toward preventing internal division. He described the moment as one of renewed strength and unity for the district.
He expressed “profound happiness” at what he called a patriotic, party-loving decision by the independents, adding that it improves the NRM’s chances of securing sweeping victories in the upcoming elections.