Independent MPs to attend NRM retreat in Kyankwanzi

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Independent Members of Parliament are set to attend the upcoming National Resistance Movement parliamentary retreat in Kyankwanzi, signalling growing cooperation between the ruling party and legislators elected outside its formal structures.

The retreat, scheduled to begin on April 7, 2026, will bring together NRM MPs and a section of Independent legislators to discuss legislative priorities, government programmes and the country’s socio-economic transformation agenda.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among confirmed that the Independent MPs will be fully integrated into the retreat’s activities, pointing to a shift towards a more inclusive parliamentary engagement framework.

“You are now part of us, and we are going to walk this journey together,” Among said while addressing legislators. “We are organising an NRM retreat starting on April 7 in
Kyankwanzi, and you will all be invited.”

She emphasised that the inclusion of Independent MPs reflects the ruling party’s broader strategy to strengthen coordination in Parliament and ensure alignment on key national priorities. Among made the remarks while unveiling Independent MPs at the NRM head office on Monday, March 23, 2026.

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The Kyankwanzi retreat has traditionally served as a key platform for the NRM to harmonise positions among its legislators, particularly on government policy and legislative business. This year’s meeting is expected to take on added significance with the participation of Independent MPs, who form a notable bloc in Parliament.

Among reiterated that Independent legislators will be accorded equal status during the retreat and in subsequent parliamentary engagements, as part of ongoing efforts to foster unity and cohesion.

“We are not going to segregate you. You will be treated equally like NRM MPs,” she said, adding that the focus remains on collective service delivery to Ugandans.

NRM national treasurer Barbara Nekesa Oundo welcomed the development, describing it as an important step in strengthening collaboration among legislators.

She said bringing together NRM and Independent MPs under one platform will help build consensus on national issues and improve legislative efficiency.

NRM director of legal affairs Enoch Barata said the participation of Independent MPs in party activities such as the retreat is consistent with the principles of cooperation and national development.

He noted that structured engagements like the Kyankwanzi retreat provide an opportunity for lawmakers to align on policy direction and reduce divisions within Parliament.

With preparations underway, attention is now turning to the outcomes of the retreat, which is expected to shape legislative priorities and strengthen coordination among lawmakers as they pursue the country’s development agenda.