NRM Delegates Conference: Key Results and Strategic Withdrawals
NRM Delegates Conference: Key Results and Strategic Withdrawals
Kololo Ceremonial Grounds — August 18–28, 2025
The NRM Delegates Conference is currently underway at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, having kicked off on August 18 and running through August 28. Party elections to fill leadership positions for the upcoming term are in progress—some already concluded, others paused or deferred.
Notable Victories
- Ofwono Opondo, former government spokesperson, was selected as the NRM flagbearer for MP Older Persons (Eastern Region), overcoming incumbent Dominic Gidudu Mafabi, the sitting State Minister for the Elderly.
- In the NRM Veterans League, Retired Lt. Moses Mushabe defeated Security Minister and Rukungiri NRM Chairperson Gen. Jim Muhwezi to claim the chairperson role.
Contested and Suspended Races
The Entrepreneurs League contest was halted by President Museveni after serious allegations of bribery and election misconduct involving candidates Hassan Basajjabalaba and Ceasar Mulenga. The suspension followed growing controversy and accusations of irregularities.
Withdrawals Shake the Race
A string of withdrawals has reshaped the competition:
- Sanjay Tanna (former Tororo Municipality MP) exited citing an “intimidating and toxic environment,” alleging missing delegates and threats faced by supporters.
- Mwesigwa Rukaari (Mbarara City North MP) withdrew to pursue his parliamentary seat as an independent rather than contesting NRM re-election.
- Sedrack Nzaire (President Museveni’s brother, Nowomugisha Sedrack Nzaire) also stepped back from the race for Vice Chairperson (Western Region).
Summary of Key Highlights
Position / League | Key Outcome or Event |
---|---|
MP Older Persons (Eastern Region) | Victory: Ofwono Opondo over Dominic Gidudu Mafabi |
Veterans League (NRM CEC) | Retired Lt. Moses Mushabe defeats Gen. Jim Muhwezi |
Entrepreneurs League | Election suspended amid bribery and misconduct investigations |
Other Notable Shifts | Withdrawals by Sanjay Tanna, Mwesigwa Rukaari, and Sedrack Nzaire |