Kampala, Uganda – August 25, 2025 – The National Resistance Movement (NRM) held its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on August 23, 2025, at State House Entebbe, marking a pivotal step in the party’s preparations for the 2026 general elections. This gathering followed the Central Executive Committee (CEC) sessions from August 20-22 and served as a precursor to the National Delegates Conference scheduled for August 27-28 at Kololo Independence Grounds. Note: While the query specified a “NRM CEC conference” in Nakawa, Kampala, research indicates this may refer to the NEC meeting, with Nakawa (specifically the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology – UICT) serving as the accreditation venue for NEC delegates on August 22. The NEC proceedings focused on endorsing leadership, addressing internal challenges, and outlining strategic priorities.
Key Resolutions and Endorsements
Chaired by NRM National Chairman and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the meeting endorsed Museveni as the party’s National Chairman and Presidential Flag Bearer for the 2026 elections. In his address, Museveni highlighted the NRM’s achievements since 1986, including restoring peace and stability through principles of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, democracy, and socio-economic transformation. He noted that Uganda’s economy has grown 17 times over this period and emphasized the goal of integrating every household into the money economy.
The NEC also proposed candidates for key vice chairperson positions, which will be put to a vote at the upcoming National Delegates Conference. This includes nominations for regional vice chairpersons, reflecting the party’s efforts to renew leadership structures.
Warnings Against Malpractices
A central theme was President Museveni’s strong condemnation of election malpractices, corruption, and the use of money in politics. He urged leaders to earn support through service rather than bribery, warning that such vices threaten Uganda’s future and undermine accountability. This came amid reports of voter bribery in ongoing CEC campaigns, with claims that delegates received between Shs200,000 and Shs3 million. NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, Capt. Mike Mukula, echoed these concerns, stating that bribery compromises leadership quality.
Additionally, controversies over “hiding delegates” – where aspirants allegedly sequester voters in hotels or even abroad to influence outcomes – were raised, with critics calling it a violation of party rules.
Tense Showdown Between Kadaga and Among
Tensions escalated during discussions on the 2nd National Vice Chairperson position, featuring a heated exchange between former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga and current Speaker Anita Among. Museveni allowed both to present their cases before the NEC. Kadaga warned that contesting the position could provoke backlash in her home region of Busoga, but Museveni rebuked her, asserting, “You do not own Busoga,” and emphasizing party loyalty over regional claims. The debate underscored internal rivalries as the party gears up for elections.
Broader Context and Next Steps
The NEC meeting is part of a series of August events, including Special Interest Group (SIG) elections on August 25 at Kololo and the National Conference on August 27-28. These gatherings aim to elect league structures, SIG flag bearers, and CEC members, ensuring organizational readiness for 2026. Health and childcare services were highlighted during delegate accreditation, with over 500 medical cases handled amid high turnout.
The NRM’s focus on unity and anti-corruption measures signals a push for clean internal polls, though ongoing controversies highlight challenges. The National Delegates Conference will finalize key decisions, potentially shaping the party’s trajectory.
