By Obed Kankiriho
Leaders of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in Rukungiri District have appealed to President Yoweri Museveni to intervene in the arrest of Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, warning that the situation could negatively affect the party’s performance in the 2026 general elections.
The call was made on Thursday during a preparatory meeting ahead of the President’s campaign visit to the district on November 26, held at the Rukungiri District Council Hall. The meeting was attended by NRM flag bearers at all levels and district officials.
As members awaited the arrival of the NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Asiimwe Jonard Akiiki, District NRM Mobilizer Brian Tumukunde led the drafting of key resolutions.
These included separating District Executive Committee meeting dates from broader party gatherings, prioritizing NRM mobilizers over opposition members, ensuring timely release of funds for mobilization, increasing youth representation, and calling for the immediate release of Besigye, a native of Rukungiri Municipality.
Tumukunde expressed concern that Besigye’s arrest is influencing voter sentiment. He noted that voters—especially in Rukungiri Municipality—frequently demand Besigye’s release during campaign rallies, a development he said opposition candidates are exploiting to their advantage.
In response, Asiimwe promised to raise the issue with the relevant authorities and brief President Museveni. He assured the leaders that he would provide feedback as soon as it becomes available.
