The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Jonard Asiimwe, has called for unity and reconciliation within the party ahead of President Museveni’s campaign tour of the Kigezi sub-region later this month.
Asiimwe made the appeal during a meeting held in Kabale Municipality that brought together NRM flag bearers and independent candidates who lost in the party’s recent primaries.
The meeting was part of a wider reconciliation effort aimed at mending internal divisions that have seen many losing candidates stand as independents in the upcoming general elections.
He emphasized that the party’s strength lies in its ability to consolidate and empower all members, including those who did not win in the primaries, noting that internal competition should not translate into lasting division.
“We must understand the capacity and contribution of every member of the NRM. Those who lost in the primaries still have a role to play in ensuring the success of the movement,” Asiimwe said.
He explained that his ongoing reconciliation mission across western Uganda seeks to promote harmony, unity, and renewed loyalty within the NRM structures ahead of the President’s campaign trail.
Denis Nzirwe, the NRM flag bearer for Kabale District LC5 chairperson, acknowledged that reconciling flag bearers and independents will be a challenge given the short time before campaigns begin and the entrenched positions of some candidates.
“The time is limited, and many independents are already established in their campaigns. There is need for the party to mobilize more strongly and ensure that flag bearers win, or else the President may have to intervene personally to resolve some of these issues,” Nzirwe said.
Kabale Municipality mayoral flag bearer Sam Arinaitwe echoed similar concerns, saying internal disputes have weakened the party’s image in some areas. He warned against members who use the party for personal gain.
“There is need for more engagements to educate members that the NRM is bigger than individuals. Personal interests should not come before the unity of the party,” Arinaitwe stated.
Asiimwe said the reconciliation drive will continue in other western districts as part of preparations for President Museveni’s visit to the Kigezi sub-region, expected to kick off later in November.
