Kadaga Declares Bid for NRM Deputy Chairperson, Criticizes "Entitlement" in Party Positions

Kyambadde Lawrence

Category: Politics

Read Time: 3 mins

Published: 03 July 2025

KAMPALA. Former Speaker of Parliament and Kamuli District Woman Representative, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga officially declared her candidacy for the position of National Resistance Movement (NRM) Deputy National Chairperson (Female) today. She submitted her nomination papers at the NRM Electoral Commission offices on Plot 13, Kyadondo Road, Kampala.

Addressing supporters and media, Kadaga strongly criticised what she described as a sense of entitlement among some party members. "People are claiming this position is reserved for former female Speakers. I reject that entirely," she stated. "This position is not automatic. I am a qualified NRM member who deserves to compete fairly."

Kadaga emphasised her grassroots support, referencing her recent reception in Lwengo District. "I rested there and celebrated with MPs, constituents, and residents who warmly welcomed me amid large crowds and celebratory gunfire," she said. "They encouraged me and expressed confidence in my victory."

Her declaration coincided with a surge of nominations for various positions on the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC). Minister of State for Finance (Microfinance), Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, also submitted his nomination papers today, arriving with a significant crowd of supporters at the Kyadondo offices.

Concerns about financial influence in the CEC elections surfaced among aspirants and observers. Some candidates reportedly expressed unease over individuals "investing heavily" early in the nomination process, viewing it as a tactic to "buy votes" during internal elections. Calls were made for the NRM Electoral Commission to closely monitor such spending to ensure fairness.

Among other contenders, Esther Najjemba declared her bid for the position of Chairperson of the NRM Disputes Tribunal. Najjemba argued that empowering the tribunal is crucial for delivering justice to party members nationwide.

Tomorrow marks the final day for nominations for various CEC positions. Aspirants seeking to contest under the NRM flag for President, including Briton Kiwanuka, Saako, and others, are expected to submit their nominations.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the incumbent NRM National Chairperson, is scheduled for nomination this Saturday, July 5th. His appearance is anticipated to be a major event, contingent on the Electoral Commission's request for his presence to formalize his candidacy.

Kyambadde Lawrence

Kyambade Lawrence is a journalist with extensive experience in covering community stories, using his deep understanding of local issues to create impactful narratives. His ability to connect with the community and capture the essence of their experiences makes his stories resonate deeply with audiences, often sparking meaningful change and awareness. With a genuine commitment to highlighting the voices of those in his community, Kyambade’s work goes beyond reporting—his stories inspire action and foster a sense of connection, truly making a difference where it matters most.