A major political shift unfolded in Ntungamo District on Thursday after several opposition figures publicly abandoned their parties and joined the ruling National Resistance Movement during President Yoweri Museveni’s well-attended campaign rally. The move significantly boosts NRM’s presence in the area as the country heads toward the 2026 general elections.
Two National Unity Platform candidates and a long-serving Forum for Democratic Change politician were among the prominent figures who defected. Oscar Kamugira Twinemanzi, formerly NUP’s choice for Rushenyi County MP, and Guard Kamaradi, who has consistently contested for the Ruhaama seat, were both formally welcomed into the ruling party. They were joined by Deborah Namara, an experienced FDC member who has repeatedly contested for Ntungamo Woman MP.
The First Lady and NRM Ntungamo District Chairperson, Janet Kataaha Museveni, commended Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa for spearheading reconciliation efforts that encouraged the defectors to embrace the ruling party once again. She urged NRM supporters to strengthen unity as campaigns intensify.
Political realignments continued as two independent candidates withdrew from their races to support NRM flag bearers. Richard Barungi, who became independent after a disputed Ruhaama primary, stepped down in favour of Beatrice Rwakimari, while Naboth Mpirirwe exited the LC5 race and threw his support behind Samuel Rwakigoba.
Kamugira explained in a WhatsApp message that senior leaders privately reached out to him before he eventually held discussions with President Museveni, who convinced him to change course. He said he would officially inform the NUP Secretariat of his departure and will now back NRM’s Naome Kabashairira for the Rushenyi County seat.
Janet Museveni appealed for continued reconciliation between NRM flag bearers and members who lost in the primaries, stressing that unity is essential as the district prepares for the polls. She welcomed the defectors warmly, saying they had “seen the light and chosen to join NRM,” and encouraged others to follow their lead.
Thursday’s rally, marked by major defections and renewed calls for cohesion, highlighted NRM’s tightening grip in Ntungamo as President Museveni steps up his campaign efforts ahead of the 2026 elections.