NRM calls on EALA hopefuls to reapply as fresh nomination process opens
Odoi clarified that all the 38 aspirants, who had previously expressed interest in March, must re-apply.
Kyadondo, NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson Tanga Odoi. (File photo)
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The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission has called on all aspirants seeking the party flag for the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) to submit their expression of interest afresh.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday (June 29, 2026) at Kyadondo, NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson Tanga Odoi said the fresh process follows Parliament's announcement of two vacant EALA positions, and it is being conducted in line with the party's parliamentary caucus rules.
The vacancies arose after former EALA legislator Dennis Namara was elected Member of Parliament for Buyaga West Constituency in Kagadi District, while James Kakooza now serves as MP representing older persons for the Central Region. The earlier application process was conducted in March, but was called off.
Odoi clarified that all the 38 aspirants, who had previously expressed interest in March, must re-apply. However, those who already paid the non-refundable application fee of sh2m will not be required to pay again. Only new applicants will have to pay the fee.
He outlined the eligibility criteria, saying applicants must be Ugandan citizens aged 18 years and above, registered members of the NRM with proof of membership, possess at least an Advanced Level certificate of education or its equivalent, and must be registered voters.
Odoi said candidates must also not be public servants; members of the Uganda People's Defence Forces, Police, or Prisons Service; members of the 12th Parliament; or cultural and traditional leaders.
According to Odoi, aspiring candidates must submit a written expression of interest and an updated curriculum vitae to the NRM Electoral Commission. The names will then be vetted by the party's Central Executive Committee before being presented to the NRM Parliamentary Caucus for election.
LC elections
Meanwhile, the commission also announced a programme for residual elections to fill vacant Local Council One (LC I) chairperson and Women Council positions across the country.
NRM primaries to fill the vacant positions will be held on July 10, 2026, followed by endorsement of successful candidates by the party's secretary general between July 11 and 14. The national Electoral Commission will conduct official nominations from July 15 to 19.
Odoi cautioned aspirants against engaging in bribery, violence, and character assassination during the campaigns, warning that offenders would be disqualified.
"If you are seen bribing voters, using violence, or intimidating others with huge convoys, the commission will take action against you. Campaigns should focus on issues and not on spreading falsehoods about opponents," he said.
Odoi hailed the NRM's recent electoral victories, citing wins in Kikuube and Kalangala district by-elections as evidence of the party's continued grassroots support.
He said the party secured more than 74% of the vote in Kikuube and reclaimed Kalangala with about 60%.