KAMPALA, Uganda — A power struggle is emerging within Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement party as supporters of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Patriotic League of Uganda seek key positions.
Minister Haruna Kasolo, a Patriotic League of Uganda die-hard, is seeking the Buganda National Resistance Movement chairmanship, currently held by Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi. Kasolo’s bid has sparked concern among some key National Resistance Movement Central Executive Committee members.
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Michael Mawanda, another Patriotic League of Uganda supporter, is vying for the National Resistance Movement chairman position for the western region, now held by Dr. Chris Baryomunsi. Baryomunsi, who is also a member of parliament for Kinkizi East in Kanungu, has expressed confidence in his ability to retain his position.
The National Resistance Movement party is considering issuing guidelines to restrict members from holding multiple high-level positions. This could impact individuals like Baryomunsi, who is a Central Executive Committee member, minister and member of parliament.
Arinaitwe Rwakajara, who is also seeking Baryomunsi’s seat, is a member of parliament for Workers and is serving his second term.
Despite the challenge, Baryomunsi remains unfazed, saying he has consistently emerged victorious against opponents. Kiwanda Ssuubi, who is facing a challenge from Kasolo, shared similar sentiments, expressing confidence in his ability to retain his position.
The Patriotic League of Uganda’s strategy is to dominate key National Resistance Movement positions, particularly at the Central Executive Committee level. This could simplify the succession process in favor of Gen. Kainerugaba, who currently serves as the chief of defense forces.
Gen. Kainerugaba has urged Patriotic League of Uganda members to join the National Resistance Movement party ahead of the 2026 elections. The move is seen as a precursor to Gen. Kainerugaba’s potential presidential bid in the future.
