NRM Plans to Bar Primary election Losers from Running as Independents

By Denish Ongora (denish.ongora@vol.co.ug)

Lira

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission is considering new measures to discourage aspirants who lose in party primaries from contesting as independents.

Tanga Odoi, the chairman of the NRM Electoral Commission, revealed that ongoing discussions are focused on instituting regulations aimed at maintaining order within the party.

These could include requiring aspirants to commit in writing that they will not run as independents if they lose in the primaries, as a way of ensuring adherence to party guidelines.

Speaking on the Wimeja program on Voice of Lango, Tanga expressed concern over indiscipline among party members who fail to abide by these rules, noting that such behavior is causing the NRM to lose ground.

Tanga also highlighted a suggestion by the NRM Secretary General, Richard Todwong, to involve elderly persons in voter and member consultations ahead of elections. This measure is seen as a way to foster unity and cohesion within the party.

Additionally, Tanga acknowledged the need for reconciliation in areas like Lira City, which have witnessed political chaos, including fights and insults among politicians.