Presidential Party Splits in Central Uganda Ahead of 2026 Elections
Kampala, Uganda
As the 2026 general elections loom, fault lines are appearing within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) — Uganda’s ruling party. In central Uganda especially, internal divisions and factional battles are threatening the party’s cohesion.
The recently concluded NRM internal polls saw the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) secure a commanding victory over rival blocs. Observers suggest this success has triggered backlash and dissent from sidelined quarters, fueling splits in key districts and local leadership circles.
What’s Causing the Rift
Factional loyalties and patronage networks within NRM are manifesting as competing candidacies for leadership at the district and constituency levels.
Some party elders and locals feel excluded from decision-making, or marginalized in candidate selection processes.
As the opposition stakes higher ground, internal coherence is seen as critical for NRM’s electoral strength.
Stakes & Implications
Should the splits deepen, they could weaken NRM’s dominance in central Uganda — historically a party stronghold. It may open political space for opposition breakthroughs or independent candidates to gain traction.
For 2026 campaigns, the NRM leadership will be under pressure to manage internal grievances, mediate disputes, and preserve unity. Failing this, the party risks fracturing key voter bases.
