As Uganda inches closer to the 2026 general elections, the contest for leadership positions within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party is gathering momentum.

One of the key battlegrounds is the race for the party’s regional Vice Chairperson seats, where both incumbents and challengers are positioning themselves ahead of the party’s internal elections.

Although the party is yet to officially set dates for the polls, different people are not taking chances with a number making their intentions known.

Social media especially WhatsApp groups are awash with debate on who will shape Uganda’s political future post 2026 elections.

The Vice Chairperson positions are crucial in the ruling party, as those elected automatically become members of the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC), the party’s highest decision-making organ.

Because of that, they command a sizeable level of influence, making some kingmaker in their own right, where they hail.

With President Yoweri Museveni maintaining his position as National Chairman, the contest for the Vice Chairperson slots is shaping up into a tense political showdown as hopefuls plunge themselves to the murky murky waters of leadership.

Battle for NRM Vice Chairperson (Female): Kadaga vs. Among

The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, has thrown her hat into the ring for the NRM Vice Chairperson (Female) seat, setting up a showdown with the incumbent, Rebecca Kadaga.

Kadaga, a political heavyweight, is currently serving as Uganda’s Minister for East African Affairs and has long been a formidable force in NRM politics.

She remains the “kingmaker” of Busoga, a sub region, key for NRM’s support base.

Among, who has risen swiftly in Uganda’s political hierarchy, enjoys significant influence in Parliament and has been consolidating her support base within the party. Her entry into the race points to a contest between two influential women, each with strong networks within the NRM. Kadaga, known for her grassroots appeal and extensive political experience, will be keen to retain her seat, while Among seeks to leverage her current position to make a compelling case for leadership.

To beat Kadaga, Among will have what appears to be the uphill task of converting Busoga to her side, where Kadaga still holds much sway.

Kadaga, in recent remarks, has pointed to this fact, reminding many the role she played in ensuring they climbed the political ladder. She has also won some, who were previously at political parallels with her, like Minister Persis Namuganza.

Northern Region: Obua vs. Kidega

In Northern Uganda, the contest for the Vice Chairperson position is heating up, with two prominent figures expressing interest—Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua and former Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), Dan Kidega.

Obua, a key figure in the current NRM government, recently made his intentions clear in a video message. Due to his position, he has been instrumental in rallying parliamentary support for government policies. His position as Government Chief Whip has placed him at the center of national politics, giving him significant leverage.

Kidega, on the other hand, brings extensive experience from regional politics, having served as EALA Speaker. Although his connections within the East African Community, may not count much, his past camaraderie within NRM structures make him a strong contender. The contest is expected to be closely fought, with both candidates enjoying notable support across the region.

Eastern Region: Oboth Oboth vs. Mukula

The Vice Chairperson seat for Eastern Uganda has also attracted intense interest, with Uganda’s Minister of Defence, Jacob Oboth Oboth, challenging the incumbent, Flight Captain Mike Mukula.

Mukula, who has held the seat for multiple terms, is known for his vast political experience and strong grassroots mobilization. Over the years, he has maintained a firm grip on Eastern Uganda’s political landscape, leveraging his role as a businessman and political strategist to consolidate support.

Oboth Oboth, however, is not an easy challenger. As Minister of Defence, he holds a powerful portfolio in government and has steadily built influence in Eastern Uganda. His candidacy could present the biggest challenge to Mukula’s reign, setting up a heavyweight battle between two well-connected political figures. Oboth is not new to challenging for top posts. He was among those who vied for the position of Speaker.

What’s at Stake?

The NRM’s structural elections are not just about party leadership; they serve as a critical indicator of shifting power dynamics within the party ahead of the 2026 elections. Those who secure seats on the CEC will play a crucial role in shaping the party’s strategy, policies, and election preparations.

The coming weeks are expected to see intensified campaigns, lobbying, and realignments within the NRM ranks.

This will include new entrants in the races that remain open. History shows that in hotly contested positions, President Museveni has had to intervene with some giving in for the party’s greater good. This cannot be ruled out.