Fifteen aspirants in Kabale District have withdrawn their bid to contest as independents in the 2026 general elections following a reconciliation and harmonization meeting organized by the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The meeting, held on Friday at UNITE Kabale (formerly Kabale National Teachers College), was chaired by the NRM National Vice Chairperson for Western Region, Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki. It brought together party flag bearers, former independent candidates, and NRM structures to promote unity and strengthen party cohesion ahead of the forthcoming polls.
According to NRM officials, the 15 who stepped down included two candidates at LC5 councilor level, five at LCIII, and eight at LCII.
Justus Niwaha, a former LCIII councilor aspirant for Kitumba Parish, said the meeting gave him a sense of closure and renewed confidence in the party.
“After meeting Eng. Asiimwe, I felt relieved from the loss. Before this meeting, no one from NRM had tried to reach out or console us,” he said.
Another former contestant, Innocent Byomuhangi, who had expressed interest in the LCIII councilorship for Karubanda Ward, noted that their decision to withdraw was voluntary.
“We have not been forced to withdraw. We did it willingly because we believe in unity and the NRM’s vision,” he said.
Kabale District NRM Chairperson, Bridget Asinga Tumwesigye, commended the candidates for demonstrating loyalty and maturity.
“Do not be intimidated by anyone for doing the right thing. You have shown true commitment to the party,” she said.
In his closing remarks, Eng. Asiimwe urged former independent candidates to work closely with NRM flag bearers to mobilize grassroots support.
“The time for division is over. I urge all those who have withdrawn to now focus on strengthening the NRM and mobilizing support for our flag bearers and for President Museveni as we move toward the 2026 elections,” he stated.
He cautioned politicians against selfishness and divisive politics, emphasizing the need for unity and service delivery.
“Politics should not be a do-or-die affair. Even when one loses, they should continue supporting the party and working for the development of their communities,” he said.
Eng. Asiimwe noted that the meeting was part of a wider strategy to consolidate support for NRM candidates and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in the 2026 general elections.
“President Museveni has always emphasized unity among party members, and it’s our duty to emulate his example in our local structures,” he added.
