ANALYSIS: Why Brenda Kiconco Is Most Likely To Clinch NRM Youth League Post

By UG Diplomat Political Desk

As the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, intensifies its post-2026 youth realignment, all signs point to one name rising above the rest: Brenda Kiconco.

Known as Finest Mukiga among her peers, Brenda’s candidacy for National Chairperson of the NRM Youth League is no longer just a declaration — it’s rapidly becoming a consolidation of support across regions, power centers, and gender lines.

Sources in the ruling party, say the lady from Kigezi sub region may be poised to make history as plunges herself in the murky waters on the NRM structure elections.

Grassroots and Elite Reach

Kiconco’s political climb has not been accidental. From Kabale to Kampala, she has built a network that spans both rural mobilization units and the corridors of power. As Assistant Private Secretary to President Museveni on Youth Affairs, she has had a front-row seat to national strategy, giving her insight few youth leaders possess.

“She understands the political rhythm of the country,” says a senior party organizer based at the NRM Secretariat. “She knows when to talk structure, when to talk service, and when to hit the ground. That’s rare.”

Brenda’s earlier election as NRM Youth League Vice Chairperson for Kabale Municipality was a tactical foothold in her journey — proof of her regional strength and credibility among local cadres.

State House Factor

Kiconco’s role as advisor to the head of state, serving directly under the President, positions her at the heart of NRM’s youth policy formation. While her rivals scramble for endorsements, she has already established trust at the highest levels.

In his recent PDM tours, Kiconco has been walking side by side the president as she reportedly briefs him about progress of the impact of youth led policies.

“We know who the President listens to on youth issues,” an insider revealed. “And Brenda is one of them. That kind of access is not just symbolic, it translates into results.”

Her work coordinating youth-focused campaigns such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) sensitizations and her involvement with the BREKIC Foundation have positioned her as a development-driven leader, not just a political figurehead.

SHATTERING MALE DOMINANCE

The NRM Youth League has long been a male preserve. But this year, the winds are shifting. Sources say her camp is likely to wave the gender flag in the hotly contested race.

“The position has been dominated by men since its inception. Having a strong woman with grassroots credibility and policy experience is not just refreshing—it’s necessary,” argued a female NRM district delegate.

There’s a growing feeling in the party that empowering Kiconco would not only signal inclusivity but energize female youth support in a pivotal pre-election period.

“She embodies both strength and empathy. And she has already inspired a wave of young women in the party,” added the mobilizer.

Numbers

While internal primaries remain unpredictable, regional indicators suggest Kiconco enjoys firm support in Western Uganda, moderate sway in Central, and a rising profile in Eastern Uganda thanks to recent speaking engagements and outreach missions.

With many young NRM delegates tired of rhetoric and craving delivery, her campaign slogan “This is Our Voice” is resonating widely — especially in post-university urban centers and SACCO-led communities.

Kiconco’s advantage is not just who she is, but where she fits in the party’s political calendar. Brenda’s positions have thrust her into the limelight, something she has taken advantage of the mould a national appeal around her person.

Known for being shrewd or ‘Omujagujagu’ (Luganda speak), Brenda has told pals she offers continuity and change in one breath — continuity in upholding the President’s four ideological tenets, and change in being the first female face leading a youth generation born in the NRM era.

“She’s not a protest candidate. She’s a strategic one,” said an NRM youth affairs source. “She will win because the party knows what’s at stake.”

If Brenda maintains this momentum towards the NRM Delegates conference in August, her opponents will need to spend countless sleepless nights devising strategy to go on a wild goose chase.