KAMPALA, Uganda — As Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) gears up for the 2026 general elections, its dominance in Eastern Uganda has become a crucial factor in the party’s prospects for victory.
The NRM’s strong performance in the region, where it secured 97 parliamentary seats in the 2021 elections, is attributed to the effective leadership of Captain Mike Mukula, the party’s national vice chairperson for Eastern Uganda.
According to official figures, the NRM won 97 seats, with an additional 25 seats taken by independent candidates aligned with the party.
The opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) trailed behind with 11 seats, while the National Unity Platform (NUP) secured two seats.
Other parties, including the Justice and Equality Movement (JEMA) and the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), also won a single seat each. In total, 141 parliamentary seats were up for grabs in the region.
Mukula’s leadership style, which emphasizes grassroots mobilization and strategic campaign coordination, has been instrumental in consolidating the NRM’s support base in the region.
His ability to connect with voters and deliver development projects has also helped to boost the party’s popularity.
However, as the 2026 elections approach, the NRM faces a daunting task in maintaining its dominance in Eastern Uganda.
The party’s main opposition rivals, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and the National Unity Platform (NUP), are expected to intensify their campaigns in the region, seeking to capitalize on any perceived weaknesses in the NRM’s support base.
Moreover, the NRM’s internal dynamics, including the impending re-election of Captain Mukula as national vice chairperson, may also impact the party’s performance in the region. Mukula’s re-election is seen as crucial to maintaining the NRM’s momentum in Eastern Uganda.
Despite these challenges, the NRM remains confident of its prospects in Eastern Uganda. Party officials point to its strong grassroots presence and organizational strength, which they believe will enable the party to withstand any opposition challenges.
As the election season heats up, all eyes will be on Captain Mukula and the NRM’s strategy for maintaining its dominance in Eastern Uganda. The party’s performance in the region will have significant implications for its national prospects, making the upcoming elections a crucial test of its strength and resilience.
