In the latest twist ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections, the Woman Member of Parliament for Kalungu District has announced her departure from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) to contest as an independent candidate.
After serving two terms under the same party, her sudden rebranding raises more questions than answers. Is this a case of personal conviction, last minute political survival or something else entirelyFor many voters in Kalungu, and indeed across Uganda, the move reflects a deeper issue. Why should the political class in Kalungu District treat party affiliation as a costume, to be changed when convenient? In the past, DP party leaders in Kalungu joined their President in the infamous deal to share power with the NRM party; today we are witnessing a defection from the NRM. The President for the National Unity Platform (NUP) warned voters about Politicians who shift goal posts, that they will not be trusted. The voters in Kalungu are left to decipher whether this is a tactical move in anticipation of waning support or a change in ideology. The implications are more serious than mere political maneuvering. This move speaks to a lack of accountability.
The dominant narrative from the Hon Ministers camp is one of independence and new direction. But independence from what? From her former party’s declining credibility? From the expectations of constituents who demand more than symbolic moves?
The people of Kalungu deserve a better voice, leaders grounded not in labels or survivalist tactics, but in consistency, transparency, grassroots actio loven and representation. The voters of Kalungu must ask themselves: If someone switches party jerseys after 15 years in office, what guarantees do they offer today that they did not deliver yesterday? Defection without reflection is not reform, its recycling.
True political renewal must come from candidates who dont wait for political tides to shift, but who stand firm in principle, accountable to the people, not to political calculations.
In 2026, Ugandans deserve leaders who are not running from the past, but walking steadily toward a future they have long promised, and are ready to build, one community at a time.
