Efforts by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership to organise joint campaigns in Iganga District have hit a snag after several candidates rejected the proposal, citing deep-seated divisions and ongoing bullying allegedly linked to rival camps within the party.
During a meeting convened on Wednesday at Iganga District Headquarters by the district NRM leadership and security agencies, aspirants expressed mistrust and discomfort with the idea of conducting joint rallies, particularly due to factional loyalties aligned with Central Executive Committee (CEC) contenders—Anita Among and Rebecca Kadaga.
Supporters of Speaker Among alleged they have repeatedly faced intimidation and harassment at public functions from rival supporters and warned that joint campaigns could exacerbate these tensions.
Milton Muwuma, the incumbent MP for Kigulu South, voiced his frustration, saying the toxic environment makes joint activities untenable.
"Whenever I attend burials or public events, I’ve been bullied on several occasions," Muwuma told Nile Post.
"If we proceed with joint campaigns, such individuals will only take further advantage to continue harassing us."
However, other candidates endorsed the joint campaign proposal, saying it would promote discipline and reduce intra-party hostilities.
Mariam Selfa, aspiring Woman MP for Iganga District, stressed the importance of central party control in managing the campaigns.
"Joint meetings where all aspirants address voters at once would help reduce hate speech, voter bribery, blackmail, and intimidation," she said. "It gives the party a better image and protects its internal cohesion."
Yusuf Kyafu, an aspirant for Kigulu South, supported the arrangement, noting that coordinated campaigns help create a level playing field, limit disputes after primaries, and discourage disgruntled members from running as independents.
NRM Iganga District Registrar Yazidi Kirunda advised candidates to share their individual campaign roadmaps with party administrators and the police to facilitate coordination and avoid logistical clashes.
District Police Commander SSP Eria Elepot also urged candidates to prioritise peace and order, warning against unauthorised processions and other acts likely to destabilise public safety.
“Campaigns must not be used to incite violence or cause insecurity,” Elepot said. “We also caution against overloading vehicles and disrupting traffic during mobilisations.”
Party officials acknowledged that funds to support the proposed joint campaigns had not yet been delivered from the NRM secretariat, further complicating the prospects of a unified effort in Iganga.
With primaries approaching, the Iganga situation highlights the challenges the ruling party faces in maintaining unity amidst simmering rivalries and unresolved grievances within its grassroots structures.
