The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Auditor, Moses Turyomurugyendo Ntahobari, has called on NRM-leaning independent candidates intending to contest in the 2026 general elections to withdraw their candidatures if they genuinely wish to demonstrate loyalty to the ruling party and its Chairperson, President Yoweri Museveni.
Addressing a press conference on Monday in Kabale District, Ntahobari raised concern over what he described as growing voter confusion caused by independent candidates who continue to campaign using NRM symbols and rhetoric while publicly declaring allegiance to President Museveni.
Ntahobari, who also serves as the NRM Regional Coordinator for Kigezi, is part of a 20-member team currently touring the region to bolster grassroots mobilisation in support of President Museveni and officially endorsed NRM flag bearers ahead of the 2026 polls.
He said the issue of independents presenting themselves as allies of the party leadership is not unique to Kigezi but a nationwide challenge. However, he noted that President Museveni has taken steps to clarify the matter by personally handing over party flags to official NRM candidates during his campaign engagements. He urged the candidates to “repent” and instead rally behind the official party flag bearers.
CUE IN NTAHOBARI……ON INDEPENDENTS……ENG/RR//
Ntahobari further explained that the team’s visit to Kabale District is aimed at strengthening party structures at the grassroots by providing logistical and material support. This includes distributing NRM manifestos and campaign materials such as T-shirts to party agents tasked with mobilizing voters.
CUE IN NTAHOBARI……ON GRASSROOTS CAMPAIGNS……ENG/RR//
The nationwide mobilization programme, which was launched in Mayuge District in November 2025, seeks to ensure that no village is left behind in the NRM’s campaign efforts. According to the Electoral Commission roadmap, Uganda is expected to hold presidential and parliamentary elections in January 2026.
