The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has called on NRM leaders in Mitooma District to intensify mobilisation and strengthen support for party flagbearers ahead of President Museveni’s upcoming campaigns, in order to counter the potential impact of independent candidates.
Tayebwa made the appeal while launching a district task force mandated to canvass support for the President and all NRM flagbearers.
He also encouraged supporters to turn up early and vote in next year’s elections.
During a meeting held at Kigarama in Bitereko, local leaders expressed concerns about the growing number of independents within NRM-leaning areas, warning that this could divide votes and weaken party influence.
“We have some district executive committee members supporting independents. This is dividing our people and will affect our votes,” said Arthur Kazoora, NRM flagbearer for Ruhinda South MP.
Jonard Asiimwe, NRM Vice Chairman for the Western Region, added: “Independent candidates rarely cooperate when bills are passed in parliament. We must ensure we support our flagbearers and not send independents to parliament.”
Addressing the leaders, Tayebwa, who is also the area Member of Parliament, urged party structures to prioritise mobilising voters strictly for NRM candidates as the 2026 elections approach.
“I have said before and I am saying again: let us support our flagbearers. I will support all flagbearers with everything I can,” Tayebwa said.
He also expressed frustration with eligible voters who hesitate to cast their ballots despite having all necessary documentation, urging residents to participate actively on polling day.
“We will look for them when they hesitate to go and vote. Why would one refuse to vote for a president who is going to lead them? Please go and vote next year,” Tayebwa said.
Later, Tayebwa led a procession from his Bitereko home to a thanksgiving rally celebrating his unopposed re-election. President Museveni is scheduled to visit Mitooma for a campaign rally on December 3.