The recently concluded National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries were overshadowed by widespread reports of violence, irregularities, and accusations of vote rigging.
The aftermath left many party members and aspirants disillusioned, as the internal electoral process faces increasing scrutiny.
Numerous petitions challenging the results have been submitted, with complainants hoping for redress. However, according to party insiders, most of these grievances are unlikely to alter the primaries’ outcomes significantly.
A senior party official familiar with the review process said the majority of petitions will likely be dismissed due to insufficient evidence or non-compliance with party procedures.
A select number of petitions may be escalated to President Yoweri Museveni and the Central Executive Committee (CEC) for further deliberation.
Yet even in such cases, credible sources indicate that repeat elections are unlikely, suggesting that the results from the contentious primaries will largely stand.
One of the most significant consequences of the disputed primaries has been a notable rise in independent candidates.
Many losing aspirants, dissatisfied with how the primaries were conducted, are opting to contest in the general elections outside the NRM framework.
Political analysts warn that this development could reshape the upcoming elections, especially in regions like Fort Portal.
A political analyst said Areas traditionally dominated by the NRM, such as Fort Portal are likely to see independents sweeping several seats, saying this will fragment the vote and could seriously undermine the party’s grip on its strongholds.
The rise of independents may dilute support for official NRM flagbearers, creating a more competitive and unpredictable political environment.
As Uganda heads toward the general elections, the fallout from the NRM primaries could signal a broader shift in the country’s political landscape, one where party loyalty is no longer a guarantee of electoral success.
Observers suggest that the increasing willingness of candidates to run as independents may lead to a more pluralistic, albeit fractured, representation in parliament.
