Minister to fight for NRM card with FDC defector

The race for Kigulu North parliamentary seat is likely to turn out to be a tight one between former Forum for Democratic Change mobiliser Ismail Badogi and the State Minister for Agriculture Fred Bwino Kyakulaga.

Badogi contested for the Kigulu North seat on FDC ticket but has since boarded the bus of the ruling NRM party.

Badogi, who had earlier given the incumbent and Minister Bwino a run for his money in the previous elections, shocked many when he publicly announced that he had joined the ruling NRM party.

Badogi was welcomed to NRM by the party's vice chairperson for eastern region Mike Mukula

amidst cheers from party supporters.

Badogi currently works in the Office of the Speaker of Parliament.

He said he decided to join the party in his own interest not seeking for a job as many would imagine.

Political analyst Issa Muyinda said Badogi is likely to lose popularity following his decision to join the ruling NRM party.

Muyinda said some of his supporters who were inclined to him are likely to abandon his camp well aware his mission is to seek a job from the party instead of representing their views in parliament.

The chairman NRM Iganga, Hajj Abubaker Walubi, said as a party they were ready to offer Badogi support in his endeavors ensure he becomes victorious.

Badogi has also promised to lure all his supporters back him up during the 2026 elections, saying he had been cheated of victory in the previous elections.