Shafik Mwanje, the NRM Chairperson for Bukomansimbi, has proposed the controversial idea of scrapping party primaries ahead of the 2026 elections. Mwanje argues that the move would help unify the party and enable it to regain lost political ground, especially in areas previously under opposition control.
However, his proposal has drawn strong opposition from several party members, including Aisha Nalujja Muyimbwa, a prominent NRM candidate, who argues that eliminating primaries would undermine democratic processes. She emphasized that primaries are vital to ensuring fairness in the selection of candidates, allowing grassroots members to have a say in the party’s direction.
Tanga Odoi, the chair of the NRM Electoral Commission, swiftly distanced the party from Mwanje’s suggestion. Odoi confirmed that the NRM is firmly committed to its democratic processes and that party primaries would remain a key component of the upcoming election strategy.
Despite the objections, Mwanje’s proposal is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the party’s unity and address what he perceives as divisions within the ranks, which have weakened its electoral performance in certain regions. Critics, however, argue that his suggestion could lead to a top-down selection process that excludes the views and participation of ordinary party members.
As the NRM prepares for the 2026 elections, the debate over primaries has highlighted deep divisions within the party on how to balance unity with democratic participation. With time running out before the election, it remains to be seen whether the party leadership will take further steps to address these concerns.
