Rukungiri District is witnessing growing political tension as support for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) appears increasingly fractured ahead of the forthcoming elections. Party supporters and local leaders have raised concerns over alleged actions by elements within the district NRM secretariat, which are said to be weakening the party from within.
According to several party mobilisers and grassroots supporters, the district NRM secretariat is accused of issuing campaign logistics including branded materials and mobilization support to opposition and independent candidates. These allegations have sparked outrage among loyal NRM supporters, who argue that such actions amount to political betrayal at a critical time in the electoral cycle.
At the center of the controversy are claims that Rubabo County MP, Hon. Naboth Namanya, currently associated with the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), has allegedly been involved in the distribution of NRM-branded T-shirts for NRM presidential candidate Y.K. Museveni in parts of Rubabo County. Although the motive behind the alleged distribution remains unclear, critics within the NRM say the act has caused confusion.
Similar allegations have also been raised against Angello Twinomuhangi, an independent aspirant for LC5 Chairperson, and Hon. Medius Kaharata, who is vying for the Rukungiri Woman Member of Parliament seat on an independent ticket. Claims suggest that they too have benefited from NRM campaign materials or logistical support. While none of the accused individuals have officially commented on the matter, party supporters argue that the situation reflects a worrying breakdown in internal party discipline and coordination.
The alleged actions have reportedly deepened divisions within the NRM support base in Rukungiri. Long-time party members say they feel demoralized and sidelined, questioning why party resources would be extended to individuals contesting against officially recognized or expected NRM candidates.
“This has divided us at the grassroots,” said one party mobiliser who asked not to be named for fear of reprisals. “Some supporters no longer know who truly represents the party, while others feel betrayed by the very structures meant to protect and strengthen the NRM.”
Political analysts warn that if the allegations are not addressed decisively, the confusion and internal mistrust could significantly cost the NRM support in the forthcoming elections. With opposition parties and independent candidates gaining momentum, a divided ruling party risks losing both parliamentary and local government seats.
Calls are now growing for the NRM national leadership to intervene, investigate the claims, and restore order within the party structures in Rukungiri. Supporters insist that without urgent corrective measures, the alleged internal sabotage could hand political advantage to rivals and weaken the party’s electoral performance in the 2026 elections.
