Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, is entering a decisive moment as it gears up for its Delegates Conference, with the battle lines for the powerful Central Executive Committee (CEC) positions now clearly drawn.
The conference, which is expected to attract thousands of delegates from across the country, will not only determine the party’s next leadership structure but also signal the internal alignments ahead of the 2026 general elections.
It will be held on August 27–28, 2025, at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala.
The conference will be preceded by a series of critical meetings, including the Central Executive Committee (CEC) sitting between August 20–22, the National Executive Council (NEC) on August 23, and the Special Interest Groups National Elective Conference on August 25.
At the conference, delegates will elect new CEC members in what is expected to be hotly contested races. The party will also formally endorse President Yoweri Museveni as both National Chairman of NRM and flag bearer for the 2026 general elections. Below is a list of some races, insiders believe will be hotly contested,
Kadaga vs. Among: Female Heavyweight Showdown
Perhaps the most anticipated race is the contest for Vice National Chairperson (Female). The seat has pitted political giants Rebecca Kadaga, the incumbent and former Speaker of Parliament, against the current Speaker Anita Annet Among.
Both wield significant political capital and control different spheres of influence, Kadaga commands loyalty in Busoga and sources say she still holds sway among NRM cadres, while Among has built networks around Teso where she hails and central power circles.
Insiders say this clash is not just about the seat but also about which woman will emerge as the NRM’s most formidable female figure going into 2026.
Western Region: Museveni’s Brother Joins the Fray
In the Western Region, the race for Vice Chairperson has become one of the most crowded. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki, a rising star and mobilizer, is widely seen as the favorite.
However, he faces tough resistance from Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Health Minister and incumbent, who is determined to retain his slot.
Others in the contest include Blaise Kamugisha, a youth leader who represents a section of the younger generation’s aspirations, and Michael Mawanda, an experienced politician.
The wild card in the race is Sedrack Nzeire Kaguta, President Yoweri Museveni’s younger brother, whose entry has sent ripples through the region, fueling speculation about family influence in the party’s internal power matrix.
Eastern Region: Mukula Fights for Survival
The Eastern Region Vice Chairperson race also promises fireworks. Incumbent Capt. Mike Mukula, a seasoned politician and longtime CEC member, is fighting to defend his seat.
He is being challenged by Calvin Echodu, who is running on a reformist ticket appealing to younger delegates, and Christopher Buyela, who is quietly working the grassroots.
For Mukula, retaining this position is not only about regional representation but also about preserving his national stature.
Buganda: Kasolo/Kyeswa vs. Kiwanda
In Buganda, the contest pits State Minister for Microfinance Haruna Kasolo against former State Minister for Tourism Godfrey Kiwanda Suubi. Both men are strong grassroots mobilizers with deep roots in the region.
Hakim Kyeswa and Kalangwa Moses have also joined the race, making the Buganda seat one of the most unpredictable contests.
Analysts believe that whoever emerges victorious will command significant influence in central Uganda — a region that remains politically sensitive for the NRM.
Entrepreneur League: Battle of the Tycoons
Beyond the CEC slots, the Entrepreneur League Chairmanship has attracted heavyweight businessmen. Incumbent Robert Rukaari faces a stiff challenge from King Ceasor Mulenga, with Hassan Basajjabalaba and Phillip Kakuru also in contention.
The contest is expected to be money-intensive, with each candidate seeking to rally Uganda’s powerful business community to their side.
Bigger Picture: Stakes High Ahead of 2026
Sources say that these CEC contests are more than just internal elections. They represent the jockeying for influence in the 2026-2031 Museveni term and the strategies for NRM dominance in 2026.
For many candidates, victory means access to the party’s highest decision-making table, influence over candidate endorsements, and a stronger voice in regional politics.
Delegates, meanwhile, are preparing for a marathon of persuasion, promises, and political drama as the conference date draws closer.
According to Todwong, delegates to the National Delegates Conference will include:
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The Party National Chairperson, First National Vice Chairperson, Second National Vice Chairperson, and six Regional Vice Chairpersons (North, East, West, Central, Kampala, Karamoja).
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Members of the National Executive Council (NEC).
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NRM Members of Parliament and NRM representatives at the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
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NRM MP flag bearers, District (LCV/City Mayors) Chairpersons, and NRM District (LCV/City Mayors) flag bearers.
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Executive committees of NRM branches in the diaspora and members of the NRM Historical Leaders Forum.
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National Executive Committees of special organs: Women’s League, Youth League, Workers League, Elders League, PWDs League, Entrepreneurs League, and NRM/A Veterans League.
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NRM District/City Chairpersons and executive committees, municipal and city division mayors, and NRM members serving on municipal, city, district, and sub-county councils.
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Chairpersons of Sub County, Municipal Division, and Town Council conferences.
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Up to 20 individuals invited by the Party National Chairman as observers.
