Ntungamo, Uganda – The race for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for Rushenyi County has taken an interesting turn, with one of the candidates, Mr. Jonan Muhumuza, withdrawing from the competition to support the incumbent Member of Parliament Hon. Naome Kabasharira.
Muhumuza announced his withdrawal from the race in a video shared on social media, stating that he had reached an agreement with the NRM secretariat and party electoral commission.
He claimed that the party chairperson’s representatives had informed him that the power to win the NRM flag was centered between him and Kabasharira, and he chose to abide by the party leadership’s decision.
Muhumuza also addressed concerns about the money he had distributed to voters in the area, stating that it was not bribery but rather a way to promote projects that would benefit the residents of Rushenyi County.
Muhumuza denied claims that he was reimbursed for the money he spent before dropping out, instead saying he would redirect the remaining funds to support Kabasharira’s NRM flag bid.
Kabasharira welcomed Muhumuza’s decision and promised support, which she believes will increase her momentum in the party primaries and the 2026 general elections.
The legislator further responded to public speculation about Muhumuza’s withdrawal, stating that the decision was made amicably between the candidates, party secretariat, and party chairperson, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Hon. Kabasharira’s bid for the NRM flag in Rushenyi County gains momentum following Muhumuza’s withdrawal, setting the stage for a competitive primary and general election in 2026.