NRM unveils flag bearers as Kampala records low turnout

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) party has concluded its hotly contested primaries across the country, unveiling a strong lineup of flag bearers for various constituencies ahead of the 2026 general elections. While the electoral process was largely peaceful in Kampala and in most constituencies, it registered a noticeably low voter turnout compared to other regions.

Teso sub-region: NRM consolidates support

In the Teso sub-region, the NRM party showcased a formidable team of candidates. Notably, Hon. Jacqueline Amongin secured the party’s endorsement for the Woman MP seat in Ngora District, while Hon. Achayo Juliet Lodou emerged as the flag bearer for Ngora County.

Hon. Christine Apolot (Kumi Woman MP), Hon. Ochom Richard (Kumi Municipality), Hon. Okaasai Sidronius Opolot (Kumi County), and Hon. Kedi Samuel (Kanyum County) are among the notable winners from Kumi District.

Serere will be represented by Hon. Hellen Adoa (Woman MP) and Hon. Okabe for Serere County. Hon. Anita Among remains unopposed in Bukedea District Woman MP race, with Hon. Ikojo John Bosco flying the flag for Bukedea County.

In Katakwi, H.E. Vice President Jessica Alupo retained her slot as Woman MP, while Hon. OGWANG took Ngariam County. Hon. Ediau Samuel will represent Amuria County.

Kampala: Low turnout, high competition

Despite a muted voter presence, several candidates emerged victorious in Kampala’s primaries. In Lubaga South, Musa Mbaziira took the flag, while Singh Katongole won Lubaga North. Faridah Nambi was confirmed for Kawempe North, and Madinah Nsereko won Kawempe South.

Anderson Burora won the Nakawa West primary and will face off with NUP’s Joel Ssenyonyi in the general elections. Fredrick Ruhindi claimed Nakawa East. Doreen Kaita and Judith Nuwagaba emerged as flag bearers for Makindye West and East, respectively, while Nanfuma Shamim took the Woman MP slot for Kampala. Minsa Kabanda secured Kampala Central.

Masaka and other Districts: Major wins for NRM heavyweights

In Masaka City, Justin Namere clinched victory with 8,703 votes, defeating Owamaria Florence who garnered 3,081. In Bukoto East, Sarah Babirye Kityo emerged victorious, while Nambaziira Florence Musoke triumphed in the Woman MP race for Ssembabule District.

Kamuli District witnessed a strong showing by senior NRM figures. Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga retained her flag for Woman MP, while Eng. Moses Magogo and Milly Babalanda won Budiope East and West, respectively.

Veterans and ministers retain influence

Several high-profile figures retained their stronghold. Hon. Frank Tumwebaze dominated in Kibale East with 89.3% of the vote. Hon. Matia Kasaija secured Buyanja County in Kibaale District. Hon. Jim Muhwezi (Rujumbura), Hon. Kahinda Otafiire (Ruhinda), and Gen. Henry Tumukunde (Rukungiri Municipality) also won their primaries.

Other notable winners include:

Phiona Nyamutoro – Nebbi Woman MP
Hon. Thomas Tayebwa – Ruhinda North
Hon. Moses Ali – East Moyo
Annet Katusiime Mugisha – Bushenyi Woman MP
Robinah Nabbanja – Kakumiro Woman MP
Elioda Tumwesigye – Sheema North
Dickson Kateshumbwa – Sheema Municipality
Amelia Kyambadde – Mawokota North

West Nile and Eastern Uganda highlights

In Arua City, the NRM Registrar declared the following winners: Onzima Phiona (Ayivu West), Tiyo William Odaa (Ayivu East), and Atima Jackson Lee Buti (Arua Central). Dr. Crispus Kiyonga retained Bukonzo West in Kasese, while Adome Francis Lorika won Moroto Municipality.

In Iganga, Mariam Seif secured the Woman MP flag, and Counsel Cohen Kyampene triumphed in Igara West.

Despite some constituencies reporting low participation, especially in Kampala, the NRM primaries revealed a mix of experienced politicians and emerging faces ready to compete in 2026. With regional powerhouses consolidating support, the general election promises intense contests across the country.