The Rwampara District Woman MP Molly Asiimwe Musiime has bowed out of the 2026 parliamentary race, ending weeks of political tension and confirming the growing influence of behind-the-scenes negotiations within the ruling NRM party.
Asiimwe, who was nominated as an independent candidate in October following disputed NRM primaries, announced her withdrawal on Wednesday during a ceremony at her home in Rugando.
The move followed a private meeting with First Lady and Minister of Education Janet Kataaha Museveni at the Irenga State Lodge in Ntungamo.
Speaking emotionally to supporters, Asiimwe said she was stepping aside to allow space for reconciliation and to avoid further divisions in the district. She endorsed NRM flag bearer Annah Kansiime, framing her exit as an act of loyalty and political maturity.
“When Maama asked me, I told her that Rwampara people call me ‘Maama Rwampara.’ What she asked for, I had to offer,” Asiimwe said. “When something fails, you let go. Let us unite and give Annah a chance to serve. I can still support my people even outside Parliament.”
Kansiime welcomed the endorsement, saying Asiimwe’s decision had prevented a potentially fractious contest between two powerful factions.
“It is good that what we agreed upon has been fulfilled,” she said. “Since she is Maama Rwampara, I will always seek her guidance.”
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, who witnessed the event, acknowledged the irregularities that marred the Rwampara NRM primaries, which initially pushed Asiimwe into the independent lane.
He described her withdrawal as a strategic move to restore party cohesion ahead of the 2026 polls.
“Contesting as an independent reflects challenges within the party,” Tayebwa said. “For the government to listen, it starts with your relationship with the NRM.”
He confirmed that the First Lady had encouraged Asiimwe to remain aligned with the party and avoid political isolation.
“She reminded her of their 15-year journey and the danger of being politically stained by running as an independent,” Tayebwa added, hinting at future roles for Asiimwe within the district or national structures.
Asiimwe’s exit reshapes the Rwampara Woman MP race, leaving the contest between NRM’s Annah Kansiime and NUP’s Sarah Kinconco, currently on remand at Mbarara Main Prison after a November 7 arrest alongside 37 NUP supporters.
With a powerful incumbent stepping aside under the guidance of top national figures, the development underscores both the influence of NRM’s central leadership and the ongoing challenges of internal democracy within the ruling party.
