Nrm Heavyweights Jostle For Vacant Eala Seats Amid Controversy Over Legality
The story
A diverse group of senior figures within Uganda’s ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM), converged at the party’s Electoral Commission headquarters to formally express interest in contesting two vacant slots in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
The positions became available after Dennis Namara and James Kakooza were elected to serve in Uganda’s 12th Parliament.
Details
However, both outgoing legislators maintain that they still hold their EALA seats, sparking debate over the legality of declaring the positions vacant.
Among the notable aspirants were Godfrey Kiwanda, Stella Kiryowa, and Brighton Kiwanuka, all of whom previously contested for the NRM national chairperson position against President Museveni.
They were joined by Buhaburwa Emmanuel Babu, a senior manager for youth and institutions at the NRM Secretariat, and Katongole Singh, a former parliamentary candidate.
The nomination exercise drew significant attention, with candidates arriving with supporters. Bagumya Fred was accompanied by Micheal Nuwagira, popularly known as “Toyota,” Vice Chairperson of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).
According to Tanga Odoi, NRM Electoral Commission chairperson, a total of 39 aspirants expressed interest in the two EALA positions, with 37 completing the nomination process successfully.
The contest has ignited controversy, as Namara and Kakooza argue they remain legitimate EALA members until formally sworn in as MPs in Uganda’s Parliament.
Why it matters
This is a public-interest story for Uganda because it touches institutions, communities, policy decisions, or services that affect daily life. Mods99 News will continue updating the article if more verified details become available.