Opinion: Consolidating NRM’s Dominance in Eastern Uganda Ahead of 2026

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has long enjoyed a commanding presence in Eastern Uganda. In the 2021 general elections, the region reaffirmed its status as a political stronghold, delivering a resounding victory with 97 NRM MPs and 25 NRM-leaning independents, compared to a modest 2 MPs from NUP, 1 from JEEMA, and 11 from FDC. This achievement was particularly impressive given that the President and Chairman, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, was unable to physically campaign due to COVID-19 restrictions.

At the center of this success was the Vice Chairman of NRM for Eastern Uganda, Capt. Mike Mukula, whose tireless efforts, resilience, and strong political networks ensured that the region stood firm behind the President and the party flag bearers. His ability to galvanize leaders, resolve internal party disputes, and energize grassroots structures delivered an almost clean sweep for the party.

As Uganda looks toward the 2026 elections, the NRM must build on this momentum and consolidate Eastern Uganda as its unshakable political fortress. This requires a combination of strategic leadership, policy focus, and grassroots mobilization.

1. Strengthening Party Structures

The foundation of NRM’s success lies in its strong grassroots structures—cells, villages, and parish-level committees that connect the party to the people. Ahead of 2026, there is a need to reinvigorate and retool these structures. Capt. Mukula has been instrumental in mobilizing and guiding these networks, but further training, coordination, and support will be key to maintaining the party’s dominance.

Regular engagement with local leaders, village meetings, and development-focused dialogues will ensure that the NRM’s message remains fresh, relevant, and rooted in the day-to-day needs of the people.

2. Delivering Visible Development Projects

Politics is ultimately judged by results. The NRM’s continued success in Eastern Uganda will depend on its ability to translate political promises into tangible development outcomes.

Key priorities include:

   •   Accelerating infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and rural electrification.

   •   Supporting agriculture modernization programs, especially for cash crops like coffee, cotton, and rice, which form the economic backbone of the region.

   •   Expanding education and health services, including vocational training for youth and improving health centers to reduce maternal and child mortality.

   •   Investing in industrialization and agro-processing, creating jobs and markets for farmers.

The people of Eastern Uganda must continue to feel that their unwavering support for the NRM translates into better livelihoods and opportunities.

3. Engaging the Youth and Women

With the majority of Uganda’s population under 35, engaging the youth is critical for the NRM’s future. Capt. Mukula’s strategy of connecting directly with the youth—through skilling programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, and mentorship—has been effective. Moving forward, the party must expand youth employment initiatives, provide start-up capital, and promote innovation hubs.

Similarly, women remain a cornerstone of the party’s support base. Tailored programs to support women entrepreneurs, SACCOs, and maternal health services will deepen the NRM’s appeal.

4. Strengthening Political Messaging

The 2021 elections proved that effective political communication, even during crises such as the pandemic, is crucial. NRM must continue strategic messaging that resonates with the people, highlighting its achievements while countering the narratives of opposition groups. Capt. Mukula’s ability to communicate the party’s vision in a simple yet persuasive manner is a blueprint that should be replicated across all districts.

5. Building Consensus Among Leaders

Internal conflicts can weaken even the strongest political movement. One of Capt. Mukula’s notable achievements in 2021 was resolving disputes among NRM flag bearers and rallying all factions to unite behind the President. As 2026 approaches, early reconciliation, inclusive primaries, and unity-building engagements will be essential to maintaining NRM’s dominance.

Conclusion: The Road to 2026

Eastern Uganda’s performance in 2021 was nothing short of exceptional, and the credit goes not only to the party structures but also to the steady stewardship of Capt. Mike Mukula. His commitment to the NRM cause, combined with his hands-on campaign strategy, delivered a victory that exceeded expectations despite the absence of the President on the ground.

To consolidate this dominance, the NRM must focus on service delivery, empower its grassroots networks, engage the youth and women, and maintain political unity. Eastern Uganda has the potential to be the gold standard of NRM’s success in 2026, setting an example for the rest of the country.

With continued strategic leadership and a development-driven agenda, the NRM is poised not only to win but to deepen its connection with the people of Eastern Uganda for generations to come.

HASSAN NGOBI 

NRM CADRE IGANGA.