The National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership has warned party members defying official positions against undermining President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s campaign programs and government initiatives.
The warning, delivered by NRM Director for Mobilization Rose Mary Sseninde, comes ahead of President Museveni’s campaign visit to the Teso sub-region. Sseninde issued the caution while addressing district party chairpersons and NRM flag bearers at Hursey Resort in Soroti City on Saturday.
Sseninde expressed concern over the rising number of senior NRM members contesting as independents after losing in the party primaries. She said such actions weaken party unity and could disrupt the President’s campaign efforts.
“We are warning all those calling themselves NRM independents to stop confusing our supporters,” Sseninde said. “Once you decide to run as an independent, you are no longer representing the party. The public should support only our officially endorsed flag bearers.”
Among the high-profile figures cited are Musa Ecweru, State Minister for Works and Transport, and Jay Jay Odongo, Minister for Foreign Affairs, both reportedly contesting as independents in their respective constituencies.
Attention has also turned to former NRM Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda, Capt. Mike Mukula, who has faced criticism for allegedly backing his son, Rodney Akongel Mukula, an independent candidate for MP Soroti City East in the forthcoming parliamentary elections.
Party insiders say the move has stirred tension within NRM structures in Teso, sparking fears that such internal divisions could weaken the party’s support base and affect the President’s campaign in the region.
“It is unfortunate that senior leaders who should be guiding the younger generation are instead encouraging rebellion within the party,” Sseninde said. “We expect discipline and loyalty from our leaders, especially those in key regional positions.”
David Calvin Ecodu, the NRM Vice Chairman for Eastern Region, acknowledged internal challenges but noted that the party has initiated reconciliation efforts to restore unity before the President’s visit.
“We are engaging our members to ensure peace and unity within the NRM family,” Ecodu said. “The reconciliation program is already yielding results, and we are determined to resolve any issues related to independent candidates.”
President Museveni is expected to launch his Teso sub-region campaign tour in the coming days, an area where NRM has traditionally enjoyed strong support. Analysts say the party’s performance will largely depend on its ability to manage internal disputes and rally behind its official flag bearers.
As Museveni’s advance team finalizes preparations, the NRM leadership has vowed to continue sensitising the public to reject independents claiming allegiance to the party, emphasising that unity remains central to sustaining NRM’s political dominance.