A public confrontation emerged today between Kampala Central Mayor Salim Uhuru and Kampala Minister Hajjat Minsa Kabanda during the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) party structure elections. The incident occurred at Eagles Nest Secondary School in Kisenyi, where sub-county level elections were being conducted under heightened security measures.
The disagreement between the two leaders unfolded in full view of party members and security personnel, though the specific cause of their dispute remains unclear. This public spat highlights growing tensions within Kampala's political leadership as the ruling party conducts its grassroots reorganisation ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The NRM party elections, taking place nationwide, aim to restructure leadership at various administrative levels. The Kisenyi venue saw a significant security deployment, with both police and military personnel present to maintain order during the voting process. Such a heavy security presence has become characteristic of NRM internal elections in recent years.
Political observers note that this confrontation between Mayor Uhuru and Minister Kabanda reflects deeper divisions within Kampala's political circles. As the NRM continues its reorganisation efforts, the party's ability to manage internal conflicts will be crucial in maintaining unity ahead of the next national elections.
The ongoing party elections represent a critical test for the NRM's organisational strength and internal democracy. With voting occurring at sub-county levels across Uganda, the outcomes will shape the party's leadership structure and potentially influence its electoral strategy moving forward.
Neither Mayor Uhuru nor Minister Kabanda has issued an official statement regarding their disagreement. However, the incident has already sparked discussions among political analysts about potential factionalism within Kampala's NRM leadership.
As the election process continues, all eyes remain on how the party leadership will address these emerging tensions while maintaining its grassroots mobilisation efforts. The situation in Kisenyi serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the NRM as it prepares for future electoral contests.
