NRM Delegates Endorse President Museveni as Party Flagbearer for 2026–2031 Term

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has once again placed its trust in President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, endorsing him as the party’s presidential flagbearer for the 2026–2031 term. The announcement was made during the NRM National Delegates Conference, which opened today at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala.

The endorsement cements Museveni’s position as the longest-serving political leader in Uganda and reaffirms his central role in steering both the party and the country into what he has consistently termed a phase of “socio-economic transformation and modernization.”

In his acceptance speech, President Museveni expressed deep gratitude to the delegates for once again entrusting him with the dual responsibilities of chairing the NRM and representing the party in the upcoming presidential contest.

“I thank you for putting trust in me to be your chairman of the NRM for the period 2026–2031, and for electing me as the party flagbearer for the presidential contest,” Museveni said to a thunderous ovation from the delegates.

The President also took time to congratulate the First National Vice Chairman of the NRM, Hon. Hajji Moses Kigongo, who was re-elected unopposed, describing him as a “senior cadre of the NRM since 1980” and praising his steadfast contribution to the party’s growth and resilience.

The endorsement underscores the prevailing sentiment within the NRM’s top leadership for continuity, unity, and stability. Over the past four decades, Museveni has guided the party through successive political, social, and economic transformations, positioning the NRM as the dominant political force in Uganda.

Senior party officials noted that Museveni’s leadership remains pivotal in consolidating Uganda’s economic progress, fostering regional integration, and strengthening national security. Delegates at the conference echoed calls for the party to remain united and to focus on mobilization at the grassroots level ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Hon. Hajji Moses Kigongo’s re-election as First National Vice Chairman of the NRM was hailed as a testament to his enduring influence and credibility within the party ranks. His unopposed victory reflects both the respect he commands and the party’s desire for continuity in its leadership structures.

Kigongo, a founding member of the NRM, has played an instrumental role in nurturing the party from its inception during the liberation struggle to its current status as Uganda’s ruling political organization.

With the endorsement secured, President Museveni is expected to begin shaping the NRM’s campaign message for the 2026 elections. Analysts predict the party will emphasize its achievements in infrastructure development, economic recovery, industrialization, and social services delivery, while also addressing challenges such as unemployment, corruption, and poverty eradication.

The NRM National Delegates Conference serves as the party’s highest decision-making organ, bringing together thousands of delegates from across the country. This year’s gathering not only endorsed leadership positions but also provided a platform to review the party’s strategies and chart a way forward as Uganda prepares for another election cycle.

The endorsement of President Museveni as the NRM presidential flagbearer for 2026–2031 sets the stage for yet another election in which his leadership and legacy will be put to the test. As Uganda edges closer to the polls, the focus will now shift to how the NRM mobilizes its base, responds to citizens’ needs, and presents its vision for the next five years under Museveni’s continued stewardship.