In a move aimed at strengthening support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s re-election bid in the 2026 general elections, leaders from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) in the Tooro sub-region have formed a united front.

The collaboration was officially announced during a press conference held at Nyaika Hotel in Fort Portal City on Sunday. Henry Mutageki Basaliza, the PLU Coordinator for the Tooro sub-region, emphasized that the alliance between PLU and NRM is designed to build solid grassroots backing for President Museveni.

Basaliza called the coalition a patriotic effort focused on sustaining the President’s legacy of peace and national transformation through the ballot in 2026. He further noted that PLU which has drawn considerable youth support since its inception brings fresh momentum to the NRM’s mobilization drive, particularly targeting first-time voters who are drawn to the movement’s principles of self-reliance, discipline, and Pan-Africanism.

Claire Dorcus Kobugabe, NRM Chairperson for Fort Portal City, hailed the partnership as both strategic and timely. She said the alliance "sends a strong message of unity and continuity" and is expected to enhance their campaign efforts as the country heads toward the polls.

Bunyangabu District NRM Chairperson Hussein Kato stressed the need to leverage the region’s widespread backing for the President as a bargaining chip. “In 2026, we are targeting over 90% of the vote. But this time, our support should be a bargaining tool. Let’s ensure Tooro gets its fair share in roads, education, health, and enterprise funding,” he said.

Kato also urged party officials to present a united front when engaging with the central government, warning that a lack of a coordinated development agenda could result in the region being sidelined.

The event drew participation from both NRM and PLU leaders representing the districts of Kabarole, Bundibugyo, Bunyangabu, Kamwenge, Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo, Kitagwenda, and Fort Portal City.

The Patriotic League of Uganda, which rebranded in 2024 from its earlier identity as the MK Movement that began in 2022, positions itself as a civic initiative focused on national unity and patriotism. The organization describes itself as a non-partisan, non-sectarian civic movement promoting patriotism and national unity.