Political analysts and voters in Masindi District say that voting in the area has traditionally focused on the individual capacity of candidates, rather than political party affiliation a trend they expect to continue in the 2026 elections.
They note that this approach allows the electorate to choose quality leaders, some of whom have later been appointed as ministers by the President.
In the 2021 general elections, only one of Masindi’s four members of parliament, Dr. Florence Asiimwe, ran on the NRM ticket, while two ran as independents and one as an FDC legislator.
Masindi, with an estimated population of 352,400, is represented by four MPs: Kenneth Nyendwoha (Bujenje County), Aled Akugizibwe Ronald (Buruli County), Joab Businge (Masindi Municipality), and Dr. Florence Asiimwe (Woman MP).
Only Dr. Asiimwe ran on the NRM ticket, while Nyendwoha and Akugizibwe ran as independents, and Businge ran under FDC, breaking records by winning Masindi Municipality as an opposition candidate.
As campaigns gear up, political analyst Stephen Kabindi warns candidates, regardless of party, to focus on voters’ needs and align manifestos with the public’s priorities.
“Here it’s more about the individual, their manifesto, and capacity than political party. Voters listen to how you intend to work for them, not just the party you represent,” Kabindi said.
This view is echoed by Joab Businge, Masindi Municipality MP, who credited his 2021 victory to his leadership record rather than party affiliation.
“People appreciated my leadership as mayor, even when I was in opposition. When I stood for MP, they voted for me on merit, not because I was in FDC. NRM had a minister, and an independent had money, but my record appealed to voters,” Businge said.
Voters agree that focusing on party affiliation can deny them competent leaders, which is why they prioritize track records and individual capacity.
“Sometimes the best leaders are in opposition or independent. For us, it’s about what you can deliver, and that’s why we vote for capacity,” said Annet Katwesige, a local voter.
Analysts also warn that if the NRM does not harmonize its candidate selection, it risks splitting votes and giving an edge to opposition candidates. Kabindi cites the 2021 Masindi Municipality race, where an independent candidate split the vote against the NRM flag bearer, allowing Businge to win.
Candidates launching campaigns say they are closely connected to voters and confident of winning.
“I have lobbied for clean water, power, mobile hospital vehicles, and roads. I have been on the ground, and I am confident that the people of Bujenje will vote me back as MP in 2026,” said Kenneth Nyendwoha, MP for Bujenje County.