President Yoweri Museveni has been nominated unopposed to contest for both the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party chairmanship and as the party’s presidential flagbearer in the 2026 general elections.
Dr. Tanga Odoi, Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, officially nominated Museveni for both positions saying he was the only aspirant who fulfilled all nomination requirements.
According to Tanga Odoi, Museveni submitted all necessary documents, including a complete set of nomination forms, valid bank payment slips, and verified endorsements from at least 151 districts across the country.
Museveni was nominated by Alhaji Moses Kigongo, the NRM First National Vice Chairperson meanwhile Hajji Shafick Mwanje, the NRM District Chairperson for Bukomansimbi District nominated President Museveni to run for the president and seconded by Masturah Namatovu, the NRM Women’s League Secretary for Publicity from Kamuli Municipality.
In his remarks Mwanje praised President Yoweri Museveni leadership and support for persons with disabilities, including the promotion of affirmative action and socio-economic transformation. He described Museveni as “an angel” and “a son of God.”
Namatovu said women across Uganda appreciate Museveni for empowering them economically through various government programs.
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong presented a Certificate of Compliance to Museveni, confirming he had fulfilled all legal and party requirements for nomination. The certificate, signed by Dr. Tanga Odoi, validated Museveni’s candidacy for both positions.
Col. Tom Butiime, Chairperson of the NRM Historical Leaders Forum and Member of Parliament for Kyenjojo District, also endorsed Museveni, stating that Uganda owes him for maintaining security and peace, improving the economy, and promoting individual freedoms.
“He is still physically fit and mentally sharp, capable of leading for another five years and beyond,” Butiime added.
Engineer Smith Tumwebaze, the NRM Youth Chairperson for Ntungamo Municipality, seconded the nomination, citing Museveni’s efforts in transforming youth livelihoods through programs like the Parish Development Model and Universal Primary Education (UPE).
Marian Faith Asiengo from Adjumani District echoed similar sentiments, noting that Northern Uganda has experienced lasting peace under Museveni’s leadership, with improvements in transport, ferry services, and local businesses.
Other seconders included Kampala District Youth Councilor Allan Mwesige, youth representatives from Jinja, and several
Providing an update on the ongoing NRM internal elections. Tanga Odoi reported that the Eastern Region fielded nine candidates for Central Executive Committee (CEC) positions, while the Western Region had eleven.
The NRM Youth League attracted 71 candidates, and the Women’s League registered 38. Campaigns for MP and LC5 party flagbearers will end on July 14, ahead of voting scheduled for July 17. Campaigns for LC5 chairperson and mayoral positions will close on July 22, with polling set for July 24.
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong decried rising levels of violence within the party and appealed to President Museveni to take action.
“To tame the violence, some undisciplined individuals should be dismissed from the party,” Todwong said.