NRM Declares Bangumya Fred Rwakaizi and Stella Kiryowa Party Flag Bearers for EALA By-Election

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission has declared Mr. Bangumya Fred Rwakaizi and Ms. Stella Kiryowa as the ruling party's official flag bearers for the two vacant positions of Members of Parliament to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).

The declaration was made on Sunday by the NRM Electoral Commission Chairman, Dr. Tanga Odoi, following the conclusion of the party's internal by-election, which attracted a highly competitive field of 36 aspirants seeking the coveted regional legislative seats.

Bangumya and Kiryowa emerged victorious after securing the confidence of the party's electoral college, earning the mandate to represent the NRM in the forthcoming election for Uganda's representatives to the East African Legislative Assembly.

The by-election was organized to fill vacancies created after Hon. James Kakooza and Hon. Denis Namara resigned from EALA to contest in Uganda's forthcoming national parliamentary elections. Their resignations necessitated the selection of new party candidates to complete the remaining term in the regional assembly.

Addressing party members after announcing the results, Dr. Tanga Odoi congratulated the successful candidates and commended all the aspirants for participating in a peaceful and democratic electoral process. He emphasized that the exercise reflected the NRM's commitment to internal democracy and transparent leadership selection.

The contest drew experienced politicians, professionals, and party loyalists from across the country, underscoring the growing importance of EALA as a platform for advancing regional integration and Uganda's interests within the East African Community (EAC).

As NRM flag bearers, Bangumya Fred Rwakaizi and Stella Kiryowa will now represent the party in the election conducted by Uganda's Parliament to determine the country's representatives to EALA. Their campaign is expected to focus on promoting regional cooperation, trade integration, peace and security, infrastructure development, and the implementation of East African Community policies.

The East African Legislative Assembly is the legislative arm of the East African Community, bringing together representatives from partner states to enact laws, oversee the implementation of the EAC Treaty, approve the Community's budget, and promote political, economic, and social integration across the region.

The successful conclusion of the NRM by-election marks another milestone in the party's preparations for Uganda's broader electoral calendar, as political parties continue to position candidates for both national and regional leadership roles ahead of the upcoming elections.

With their victory, Bangumya Fred Rwakaizi and Stella Kiryowa now carry the responsibility of representing the NRM's vision and priorities at the regional level should they be elected by Parliament to serve in the East African Legislative Assembly.