CEC Vetting Timing Questioned by Aspirant Hon. Enoch Barigye Byaruhanga

Central Executive Committee (CEC) aspirant Hon. Enoch Barigye Byaruhanga has expressed concern over the timing and transparency of the forthcoming vetting process for top National Resistance Movement (NRM) party leadership positions.

While appearing on UBC earlier this week, Barigye stated that although he is not opposed to vetting as a mechanism to ensure quality leadership within the party, the process should have been conducted before the nomination exercise.

“We went through the nomination process and started mobilizing at the district level,” Barigye said.

“Meanwhile, some incumbents who hold multiple positions were also actively mobilizing to retain or seize MP flag bearer positions. It is only now, perhaps realizing time is short, that they are turning full attention to the CEC race.”

Barigye’s remarks come at a time when several other CEC aspirants have also raised red flags about the transparency of the process.

A key concern is the reported involvement of current incumbents and fellow contestants on the vetting committee itself a situation critics say undermines fairness and breeds conflict of interest.

“This process must not only be credible but seen to be credible,” Barigye emphasized, calling on the NRM leadership to consider internal reforms that promote inclusivity, transparency, and level competition.

His comments add to the growing calls within the party for an overhaul of internal democratic processes, especially in light of the highly competitive 2026 election cycle.

As the NRM prepares for its internal elections, pressure is mounting on the party’s Electoral Commission and top leadership to uphold principles of fairness, neutrality, and institutional integrity.