President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was officially nominated unopposed to contest for both the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party chairmanship and the party’s presidential flagbearer position in the 2026 general elections.
The announcement was made at the NRM Electoral Commission headquarters, further cementing his leadership within the ruling party.
Dr. Tanga Odoi, Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, confirmed that Museveni was the only candidate who met all nomination requirements, including complete forms, bank payment slips, and verified endorsements from at least 151 districts.
“The aspirant is one, and it is President Museveni,” Odoi declared, dismissing a failed attempt by another individual who lacked even a nominator or seconder.
Museveni’s nomination for NRM chairperson was formally presented by Alhaji Moses Kigongo, the party’s First National Vice Chairperson, at 1:52 p.m. His nomination as presidential flagbearer followed at 2:10 p.m., submitted by Hajji Shafick Mwanje, NRM Chairperson for Bukomansimbi District, and seconded by Masturah Namatovu from Kamuli Municipality.
During the ceremony, Mwanje praised Museveni’s leadership, especially in supporting people with disabilities and fostering socio-economic change. He described the president as “an angel” and “a son of God.” Namatovu highlighted his efforts to empower women through various government initiatives.
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong presented him with a Certificate of Compliance, officially confirming his eligibility for both roles. The certificate was signed by Dr. Odoi.
Key party figures also voiced their support. Col. Tom Butiime, Chairperson of the NRM Historical Leaders Forum, credited Museveni for maintaining national security, economic stability, and civil liberties. “He is still physically and mentally fit to lead,” Butiime affirmed.
Engineer Smith Tumwebaze, NRM Youth Chairperson for Ntungamo, applauded Museveni’s support for youth through programs like Universal Primary Education and the Parish Development Model. Marian Faith Asiengo from Adjumani cited ongoing peace in Northern Uganda and infrastructure improvements under Museveni’s tenure. Youth leaders from Kampala, Jinja, and other regions joined in backing the president’s candidacy.
Dr. Odoi also provided updates on the NRM’s internal elections. The Eastern Region has nine contenders for Central Executive Committee (CEC) posts, the Western Region has eleven, while the Youth and Women’s Leagues have attracted 71 and 38 candidates respectively. Campaigns for MP and LC5 flagbearers will end on July 14, with voting on July 17. Mayoral and LC5 campaigns close on July 22, followed by voting on July 24.
However, Odoi raised concerns about the integrity of internal processes. He reported that a registrar in Pallisa District had been murdered, and called on Museveni to authorize the recruitment of independent, secure registrars in politically volatile districts like Kibaale, Kagadi, Tororo County, and Namutumba.
“Registrars must work free from political pressure,” he emphasized.
Todwong echoed these concerns, condemning rising violence within the party. He urged Museveni to take strong disciplinary action against disruptive elements. “Undisciplined individuals must be dismissed to restore order,” he said.
His uncontested nomination marks a significant milestone for the NRM as it gears up for the 2026 elections, even as it contends with internal challenges and demands for reform.
