The atmosphere in Uganda’s political landscape is heating up following the leak of a comprehensive National Resistance Movement (NRM) political roadmap, detailing plans and internal processes leading up to the 2026 general elections.
Although not officially released to the public, the document which will be unveiled on Monday by the NRM Secretary General, Richard Todwong, has ignited widespread excitement, speculation, and a surge of political activity across the country. Aspiring candidates—both incumbents and new entrants—are already jostling for visibility and support in anticipation of what many are calling a do-or-die electoral season.
The internet, especially social media platforms have seen a sudden flood of campaign posters as prospective contenders move swiftly to position themselves before the public. From flashy Facebook banners to viral Twitter threads and TikTok videos, candidates are leaving no digital stone unturned in a bid to rally support.
This roadmap leaks comes days after the party’s top decision making organ, the CEC, sat to draw it. The NRM Caucus is meeting today to adopt the blueprint before it’s launch next week.
Various WhatsApp groups have mushroomed overnight, each one dedicated to marketing a specific candidate.
But the online buzz is just one side of the story. On the ground, some politicians are already making spiritual pilgrimages. Reports from across the country indicate that shrines and churches are receiving unusual visits from aspiring leaders, many of whom are seeking a supernatural edge as the race begins to take shape. Religious leaders, and ‘African chemists,’ are finding themselves drawn into this early spiritual contest, as candidates seek blessings, favor, and divine assurance of victory.
Sources in the political corridors of power say other candidates are preparing to unleash a war chest in attempts to sail to victory.
“Competiton is expected to be stiff as some members of the PLU are expected to join the fray,” the source said.
“The roadmap has only just surfaced, but what we’re witnessing is an explosion of ambition,” said one observer. “Those who lost in the last elections want redemption. The incumbents want to consolidate their seats. The fresh blood wants in. It’s going to be a heated ride.”
Sources inside the NRM say the CEC and race for parliamentary seats’ flags, will make the biggest battlegrounds in this political contest.
