The just-concluded NRM party primaries have stunned so many on Uganda’s political scene. Several incumbent leaders lost their seats to newcomers, a development that has sparked discussions across the country.
So, what happened?
During the ongoing Validation Meeting on Citizen Needs and Aspirations ahead of the 2026 General Elections in Buganda Region, organised by the Community Transformation Foundation Network (COTFONE), Leaders, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and citizens, who participated, decried poor services yet they pay taxes. They appealed to their leaders to improve service delivery, especially in health and other essential sectors.
However, during the party primaries, many voters in the ruling party expressed disappointment with their leaders’ performance. The biggest complaint was poor service delivery, roads not fixed, schools neglected, health centers under-equipped, and leaders who were hardly visible in their communities.
These frustrations built up over time, and the primaries gave people a chance to speak through the ballot.
Interestingly, President Yoweri Museveni, who is the NRM party chairman, has often blamed poor service delivery on opposition politicians, especially in areas led by opposition MPs. However, this wave of losses among NRM leaders shows that the problem is deeper and widespread.
Even leaders from the ruling party, who had the power and resources to help their people, were voted out because they failed to deliver on promises.
This primary election should be a wake-up call. It shows that Ugandans are increasingly demanding accountable and visible leadership, not just party loyalty. People want leaders who are present, who listen, and who act.
In simple terms: if you don’t work for the people, the people will remove you, even if you are in the ruling party.
As the country heads toward the 2026 General Elections, all leaders, NRM, opposition, and independents, should take note. The voter is watching, and the voter is ready to decide.
