Dismiss NRM independents in 2026 General Election, Kamuntu urges NRM

SHEEMA - Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, the Sheema South Constituency National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag-bearer for Parliament, has called for the dismissal of party members defeated in the recent primaries who are seeking to run as independents.

Kamuntu made the call during the Sheema South NRM Baraza being conducted across all six sub-counties of Rugarama, Kitagata Town Council, Bugongi Town Council, Kitagata sub-county, Kasaana and Shuuku Town Council aims to foster party unity, promote reconciliation, and garner support for NRM candidates at all levels in the constituency.

Addressing the ongoing Sheema South NRM Baraza at Kyeihara Primary School playground in Kyeihara parish, Kasaana sub-county, on September 28, 2025, Kamuntu emphasised that such actions undermine party unity and discipline.

“Those NRM members who have insisted on coming back as independents do not respect the party values of patriotism, democracy, pan-Africanism, and socio-economic transformation,” Kamuntu stated.

He urged all those who were defeated in the primaries to support the winners.
“I call upon all those who were defeated to rally behind those who won the party flags and work together for the good of the party.”

Echoing Kamuntu's sentiments, Sheema district NRM chairperson Richard Muhangi urged those contesting as independents to vacate any positions they hold within the party and submit formal letters of resignation. 

“Those who have decided to come back as independents should immediately vacate any positions they are holding within the party and write to the party to formally show that they have quit the NRM,” Muhangi asserted.

Adrine Katusiime Mwebesa, the NRM flag bearer for Sheema Woman MP, also addressed the gathering, urging residents to support President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to secure the nation's gains. 

“Let us rally behind President Museveni to ensure continued progress and stability,” Mwebesa appealed.

Independents' challenge in NRM

The ruling party is faced with a challenge of members who have decided to go independent even after being defeated in the primaries held in July 2025. Several of these allege several irregularities during the primaries, including voter bribery and rigging.

However, there have been efforts by the party, headed by President Yoweri Museveni, to iron out differences and convince independents to step down. 

In a social media post over the weekend, the President, who is also contesting for the same seat in the 2026 General Election, said: I met my daughter Resty Namutamba from Luuka and Mr Jafari Basajjabalaba, the LC 5 Chairman of Bushenyi, both of whom belong to the NRM.

I wish to commend them for accepting to withdraw from the race in favour of the NRM flag bearers. This is in line with our NRM principles, and it should be promoted because it saves time and it eliminates divisions.