By CHIMPREPORTS
The Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has postponed discussions on the anticipated presidential candidature of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba in the 2026 general elections.
In a press statement signed by national vice chairman Alhaji Moses Kigongo on Friday afternoon, the committee declared, “We members of CEC have today, 23rd of February 2024, converged to meet the national vice chairman Alhaji Moses Kigongo at Mosa Courts for consultation and it was unanimously agreed that the tentative NRM road map activities (2024 to 2026) be stayed until CEC meets to make an input.”
A contingent of NRM mobilisers, led by presidential advisor David Mafabi, had recently petitioned CEC to address concerns about the emergence of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), led by Gen Muhoozi.
PLU asserts itself as a civic movement formed to promote patriotism in Uganda. However, Mafabi’s group claimed that PLU had caused confusion within the ruling NRM party and urged CEC to expedite the election process for new structures within the Movement.
There are indications that Mafabi’s group might be influenced by certain NRM historicals who oppose the idea of a Muhoozi presidency. Gen Muhoozi has publicly declared his intention to run for president in the 2026 polls and has garnered support from historicals, serving cabinet ministers, and MPs.
This development has stirred concerns among some ruling party members who fear potential shifts in power dynamics should Muhoozi assume the presidency. The delay in discussing the NRM road map activities suggests a complex political landscape within the party, with divergent views on the direction it should take in the upcoming elections.
NRM historicals
George Olara, a political analyst, remarked, “What we are witnessing now is a plan hatched by some NRM historicals to scuttle a possible Muhoozi presidency.”
The CEC meeting saw the attendance of Internal Affairs Minister Rtd Maj Gen Kahinda Otafiire and his Information counterpart Chris Baryomunsi, both known to oppose a Muhoozi presidency. Otafiire openly conveyed his opposition to the idea of Muhoozi assuming the presidency during a meeting with his constituents in Mitooma district.
PLU’s Deputy Spokesperson, David Kabanda, asserted that PLU is not involved in any political activities.
Simultaneously, CEC members expressed dissatisfaction and discomfort over designations of parliament commissioners, as well as the leadership of the sessional and standing committees of Parliament. These appointments were made without the input of CEC, contravening the rules of procedure for the NRM parliamentary caucus.
In an interesting development, the meeting also decided to allocate a vote to the Central Executive Committee from Government funds disbursed to the NRM. This vote will be under the management and administration of the National Vice Chairman for party activities and accountability.
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