NRM in final preparations for national conference as CEC aspirants question vetting process
NRM national chairperson Moses Kigongo, who is also seeking re-election, urged for unity and discipline.
Moses Kigongo, the National First vice chairperson of the NRM party addressing CEC contestants at the NRM electoral commission offices. (Photos by Simon Peter Tumwine)
By Jeff Andrew Lule
Journalists @New Vision
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The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party is in the final stages of preparing for its national conference.
The event has drawn over 300 candidates to compete for positions in the Central Executive Committee (CEC), the party's top organ.
The conference, scheduled for August 27–28, 2025, at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, will be preceded by a series of key internal meetings, including the CEC vetting session, national executive council (NEC) meeting and conferences for the party’s special organs.
Addressing candidates on August 12, NRM deputy secretary general Rose Namayanja confirmed that preparations are in “high gear” and all systems are in place for a smooth process.
“We are ready to conduct the national meetings and conferences following a notice from the national chairman,” she said.
Vetting, accreditation
Namayanja outlined the structured schedule: August 21: NEC accreditation at Nakawa ICT Institute; August 23: NEC meeting in Entebbe; August 24: Accreditation for special organs; and August 27–28: national conference at Kololo.
Accreditation will be organised by region, with district chairpersons leading teams to facilitate a smoother process.
“Even CEC members, though few, will be accredited at the party secretariat. We want to ensure only rightful delegates participate.”
Tanga Odoi, the NRM electoral commission chairperson of the NRM party addressing CEC contestants at the NRM electoral commission offices. 
She noted that verification of the delegates' lists is ongoing at the secretariat, together with security to confirm individuals’ identities.
Record number of candidates
Namayanja revealed a notable increase in candidates from the previous election.
According to the secretariat, 305 candidates are vying for various CEC positions.
“This reflects the strength of our party and the value people place in being part of its leadership. Whether you win or lose, going through this process adds to your leadership growth.”
Protest on vetting process
Despite assurances of transparency, several candidates expressed concern over the CEC vetting process, saying it is compromised by conflicts of interest, since some current CEC members are also contesting reelection yet remain part of the vetting panel.
Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki, contesting for vice-chairperson (western), raised the issue bluntly.
“How can an examiner vet their own opponent? It’s unfair. They might ask biased or unrealistic questions. The vetting should be done by a neutral body.”
Emmanuel Kisembo, a candidate for First National Vice Chairperson, echoed similar sentiments.
“We need an independent vetting committee. It’s not right for fellow candidates to sit in judgment over each other.”
Adrine Kobusingye, one of the candidates for the Women’s League, also questioned the integrity of the process.
“They told us they would step aside when being vetted, but that’s not enough. Once someone declares their interest, they should always vacate their office temporarily and be like other candidates,” she noted.
But the party’s Secretary General, Richard Todwong, moved to allay fears, insisting that the vetting process will be free, fair, and transparent.
“CEC members who are also candidates will step aside during discussions on their positions. Elections will be public, through lining up and open counting. No agents will be allowed at polling stations, and no candidate will be favoured,” he stated.
NRM national chairperson Moses Kigongo, who is also seeking re-election, urged for unity and discipline.
He emphasised that all candidates must conduct themselves professionally and uphold the party’s image throughout the process.
“We must follow the rules. We are the face of the party,” he said.
Kigongo faces stiff competition from Dr. Samuel Oledo, Emmanuel Kisembo, and Bridge Agaba.
Dr Tanga Odoi, the chairperson of the NRM electoral commission, reaffirmed the commission’s neutrality.
“A team of seven commissioners will supervise the process. Our role is to oversee and announce results,” he added.