NRM Primaries Gain Momentum as 14 Aspirants Go Unopposed

The nomination exercise for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries is intensifying, with increased activity reported at the party’s Electoral Commission offices in Kyadondo, Kampala.¹ As of Tuesday, 14 aspirants have been nominated unopposed, securing their bids to contest in the 2026 general elections as NRM flag bearers.

Dr. Tanga Odoi, the NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, addressed the media at the party headquarters, confirming the unopposed nominations. He also announced that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is set to return his nomination papers on July 4, 2025. President Museveni is seeking nomination for two key positions: party chairperson and presidential flag bearer for the upcoming elections.² This follows his earlier indication on Monday that he would officially pick the papers on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

NRM Deputy Spokesperson Rogers Mulindwa officially read out the names of the unopposed aspirants at the party headquarters.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Dombo, the NRM Communications Director, clarified the roadmap for candidates eyeing positions on the influential Central Executive Committee (CEC).³ He stated that interested candidates for CEC positions are expected to begin picking up nomination forms from June 26, 2025, and must return them between July 2 and July 4. President Museveni has specifically scheduled July 4 for his submission.

Among those successfully nominated is State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, Relief and Refugees, Lillian Aber, who will contest as the NRM flag bearer for Kitgum District Woman MP. Aber reiterated her commitment to service delivery and expressed confidence that her past achievements would resonate with voters. She emphasised the value of competitive elections for the exchange of ideas and called for peaceful campaigning, while also mobilising support for President Museveni’s re-election.

Dr. Charles Ngabirano was also nominated to vie for the Rwampara East Constituency. He articulated the need to continue ongoing development initiatives in his constituency, including coffee processing, road maintenance, and improvements in electricity and water supply. Dr. Ngabirano underscored the importance of mobilising government support to sustain these efforts. He appealed for a peaceful campaign, urging his supporters to shun violence, and expressed confidence in his prospects against his opponent.

However, the nomination process was not without its concerns. King James Nkizamagara, nominated for the Isingiro North Constituency, raised allegations of bias among NRM registrars in his area. He claimed the party’s Electoral Commission had received complaints regarding registrars’ support for the incumbent, State Minister Bright Rwamirama. Nkizamagara warned that if electoral irregularities arise, the responsibility would lie with the party leadership and urged the commission to appoint impartial officials.

Other notable aspirants who have been nominated include former State Minister for Karamoja Affairs Agnes Nandutu, seeking the Bududa District Woman MP seat; Fiona Nakku for National Female Youth MP; Ronald Apuuli Tugume for Makindye West; and Doreen Keita, former Deputy RCC for Kampala Central, also contesting in Makindye West.

The nomination process, which was briefly disrupted by a heavy downpour earlier today, is still ongoing. The NRM primaries are slated for July 16, 2025, and will be conducted through the “lining up behind candidates” method.