Hon. Singh Katongole Eyes EALA Seat as NRM Fronts Over 37 Candidates in Competitive By-Election Race

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has nominated more than 37 candidates to contest for two vacant positions in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), with Singh Katongole Paminder emerging among the notable contenders positioning themselves for regional leadership.https://youtube.com/shorts/Ov0BwPoHaoM?si=gW3sW3Corc5T6UWy

The vacancies were declared after Hon. James Kakooza and Hon. Dennis Namara secured election to Uganda’s 12th Parliament, prompting the need to fill Uganda’s representation at the East African legislative arm.

Katongole Positions Himself on Trade and Unity

Speaking after his nomination, Hon. Katongole outlined a clear vision centered on economic integration and regional cooperation. He emphasized that strengthening trade among member states of the East African Community (EAC) would be his top priority if entrusted with the role.

“Unity is key for East Africa. I will focus on building a stronger common market to benefit all member states,” Katongole said, underscoring the importance of harmonized trade policies and reduced barriers to cross-border commerce.

His message aligns with ongoing EAC efforts to deepen integration through frameworks such as the Common Market Protocol and plans for a Monetary Union—key pillars aimed at boosting intra-regional trade and economic growth.

Competitive Field Within NRM

The nominations were conducted by the NRM Electoral Commission led by Dr. Tanga Odoi, who confirmed that all aspirants met the party’s eligibility criteria. He noted that the next phase will involve vetting by the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), which will determine the final flag bearers.

“The list of nominees will be forwarded to the CEC for scrutiny, and those successful will proceed to the election stage,” Odoi said.

Katongole faces stiff competition from a wide pool of aspirants, including seasoned politicians such as Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi, a former Member of Parliament for Mityana North and former State Minister for Tourism, who has also expressed confidence in his experience to deliver at the regional level.

Broader Agenda for Regional Development

Beyond trade, other aspirants have articulated complementary priorities. Steven Bujjingo, another contender, has pledged to push for a single East African currency, expanded job opportunities across borders, and enhanced peace and stability—issues that resonate with the EAC’s long-term integration agenda.

For Katongole, however, the emphasis remains on unlocking economic potential through a robust and inclusive common market. Analysts note that trade remains a central driver of integration, making his platform both strategic and timely.

High Stakes for Regional Representation

The EALA by-elections are expected to be highly competitive, not only within the NRM but also across other political parties, as each seeks to secure representation in the regional assembly. Members of Parliament will ultimately vote to elect Uganda’s representatives, making party endorsement a critical step in the process.

EALA plays a pivotal role in legislating on matters that affect the East African region, including trade, infrastructure, and regional cooperation. As such, the stakes remain high for candidates like Katongole, whose policy focus speaks directly to the core objectives of the community.

As the vetting process looms, Hon. Singh Katongole’s bid adds momentum to an already crowded race—one that will ultimately shape Uganda’s voice in the evolving journey of East African integration.