Hamson Obua warns NRM members against running as independents in the 2026 general
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda, Hon. Hamson Obua, has cautioned party members intending to contest as independents in the 2026 general elections after losing in the party primaries, describing such actions as acts of indiscipline and betrayal.
Speaking during a series of mobilization meetings across Northern Uganda, Obua emphasized that the NRM, as a revolutionary party with a strong ideological foundation, expects its members to demonstrate loyalty, respect for structures, and adherence to party principles.
“When you participate in our primaries, you are bound by the outcome. Walking away to contest as an independent after losing is an act of defiance and betrayal to the party that has nurtured and supported you,” Obua stated.
He warned that members who defy the directive and stand as independents risk being excluded from future presidential appointments or leadership opportunities, as such conduct reflects a lack of discipline and teamwork — values central to the NRM’s legacy.
“President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has always rewarded loyalty and commitment to the cause of the Movement. Those who go against the party’s will should not expect to benefit from it later,” he added.
Obua urged aggrieved aspirants to seek redress through the party’s established dispute resolution mechanisms, rather than resorting to divisive independent bids. He noted that every large political family experiences internal competition, but how differences are managed determines the party’s long-term strength and cohesion.
He further appealed to party leaders at all levels — from village committees to district executives — to foster reconciliation and dialogue among members, ensuring that post-primary processes are handled with fairness and transparency.
“As we move toward 2026, our greatest weapon is unity. The NRM cannot afford internal fractures at a time when Ugandans are looking to us for stability, continuity, and service delivery,” Obua stressed.
The Vice Chairperson reaffirmed the NRM’s readiness to conduct credible and peaceful primaries that reflect the people’s choice, urging aspirants to campaign maturely, avoid violence, and place the interests of the Movement above personal ambition.
He concluded by reminding members that the NRM’s strength has always been built on collective vision and ideological discipline — virtues that have kept the party in power and relevant for nearly four decades.
“The Movement is bigger than any individual. We must protect it by remaining united, disciplined, and loyal to the cause of transforming Uganda,” he said.
As the countdown to the 2026 elections intensifies, Obua’s message serves as both a caution and a rallying call for NRM members to prioritize internal unity and uphold the party’s enduring values of patriotism, service, and solidarity.
