By Obed Kankiriho
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Auditor, Moses Turyomurugyendo Ntahobari, has called on NRM-leaning independent candidates intending to contest in the 2026 general elections to withdraw their candidatures if they genuinely wish to demonstrate loyalty to the ruling party and its Chairperson, President Yoweri Museveni.
Addressing a press conference last evening in Kabale District, Ntahobari expressed concern over what he described as growing voter confusion caused by independent candidates who continue to campaign using NRM symbols and messaging while publicly declaring allegiance to President Museveni.
Ntahobari, who also serves as the NRM Regional Coordinator for Kigezi, is part of a 20-member team currently touring the region to strengthen grassroots mobilisation in support of President Museveni and officially endorsed NRM flag bearers ahead of the 2026 polls.
He noted that the challenge of independents presenting themselves as allies of the party leadership is not unique to Kigezi but a nationwide issue. Ntahobari said President Museveni has sought to address the confusion by personally handing over party flags to officially nominated NRM candidates during campaign engagements, urging independents to “repent” and rally behind the party’s legitimate flag bearers.
Ntahobari further explained that the team’s visit to Kabale District is aimed at strengthening NRM party structures at the grassroots level through logistical and material support. He said this includes the distribution of party manifestos and campaign materials such as T-shirts to party agents tasked with mobilizing voters.
The nationwide mobilisation programme, which was launched in Mayuge District in November 2025, seeks to ensure that no village is left behind in the NRM’s campaign efforts.
According to the Electoral Commission roadmap, Uganda is expected to hold presidential and parliamentary elections in January 2026.
