The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has entered a critical phase in its internal electoral calendar as nominations for the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) positions continue ahead of Saturday’s final submissions.
Tanga Odoi, chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, has cautioned all aspirants to refrain from conducting individual campaigns outside of official party structures.
Speaking during a media briefing, Odoi warned that candidates found mobilizing unlawfully or engaging in acts of intimidation or violence will be held personally accountable.
“We shall not tolerate chaos. Mobilization must be done through recognized party channels. Any candidate inciting violence or threatening opponents will face arrest,” he said.
Odoi clarified that only a few top government officials—such as the Vice President, Prime Minister, and a select number of ministers—have been cleared to engage in individual campaigning during the nomination period.
He also warned candidates against hiring celebrities, particularly musicians, to boost their campaigns, saying such tactics could sow discord within the party.
“Popular musicians can polarize the process. This is an internal party election—not a music show,” he remarked.
Among the high-profile aspirants already nominated is Salim Uhuru, Mayor of Kampala Central Division, who is vying for the Kampala CEC slot.
In the Eastern Region Vice Chairperson race, Calvin Echodu and MP Mariam Naigaga have thrown their hats into the ring, challenging long-serving incumbent Mike Mukula.
Elsewhere, Adrine Kobusingye is contesting to unseat Lydia Wanyoto, while MP Robert Mwesigwa Rukaari seeks another term as Chairperson of the NRM Entrepreneurs League.
He faces a crowded field, including Hajji Hassan Basajjabalaba, Presidential Advisor Phillip Kakuru, and tech entrepreneur Kwame Rugunda.
Dr. Odoi also hinted at procedural reforms, particularly in the election of the party’s Vice Chairperson, though he did not provide specific details.
The nomination window remains open until Friday, with the final highlight expected on Saturday when President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the incumbent NRM National Chairperson, is slated to formally declare his candidacy.
The CEC, as the highest policy organ of the ruling party, plays a central role in shaping both internal strategy and national policy influence.
With major figures now in the running, this round of nominations is widely viewed as a bellwether for the direction of the party ahead of the 2026 general elections.