Yesterday, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) delegates conference at Kololo Independence Grounds was marked by intense political developments, strategic victories, and surprising withdrawals, signaling shifts within the ruling party’s leadership ahead of the 2026 elections.
One of the biggest victors was Jacqueline Mbabazi, wife of former Prime Minister John Patrick Amama Mbabazi, who was elected NRM Elders League Chairperson for Western Uganda. She defeated the incumbent Joram Ruranga Tibasiimwa, MP for Elderly Persons (Western).
In the Women’s League elections, there was high drama as the incumbent chairperson Lydia Wanyoto abruptly withdrew her candidacy, citing insufficient delegate support. She endorsed Faridah Kibowa, but faced harsh criticism from delegates who accused her of underperforming during her decade-long tenure.
In the end, Adrine Kobusingye, a Bushenyi businesswoman and hotel owner in Sseguku, emerged victorious with 1,838 votes, defeating Kibowa (670 votes), Sarah Ochenge Lanyero (19 votes), and Rahema Nakalawa (2 votes).
Winners/Losers in Special Interest Group Elections
Elders League Eastern Region: Ofwono Opondo, former Executive Director of the Uganda Media Centre, won against Minister Gidudu Mafabi.
Elders League Central Region: James Kakooza, EALA MP, secured the slot.
National Elders League Chairperson: Penninah Busingye Kabingani (Maama Kisanja), former MP for Elderly Persons Central Region.
National Female Elder Representative: Peggy Joy Waako retained her position.
Veterans League Chairman: Lt Moses Mushabe defeated Security Minister Jim Muhwezi.
Persons with Disabilities League: Shafiq Mwanje emerged as chairperson.
Today the delegates conference will convene and elect office bearers for other positions on the Central Executive Committee (CEC). The highlight is expected to be the contest between former speaker Rebecca Kadaga and Anita Among, the current speaker, for the position of second national vice chairperson (female) of the NRM.
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