National Resistance Movement (NRM), Uganda’s ruling party, has begun preparations to select its flagbearers for vacant seats in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) following recent developments that created gaps in Uganda’s regional parliamentary delegation in March 2026.
The vacancies emerged after former EALA representatives Dennis Namara and James Kakooza Mutagubya were elevated to Uganda’s national Parliament earlier in 2026, officially vacating their positions in the regional assembly on January 15, 2026. Their transition created the need for fresh representatives to maintain Uganda’s presence in the legislative arm of the East African Community (EAC).
In response to the vacancies, Anita Among, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, wrote to NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong on March 19, 2026, instructing the party to organize internal primaries to identify suitable candidates. She emphasized that the seats were originally secured on the NRM ticket, making it necessary for the party to maintain its representation in the regional legislative body.
The broader process for filling the vacant seats has been outlined by Clerk to Parliament Adolf Mwesige Kasaija, who confirmed that nomination forms will be available starting March 25, 2026. Nominations are scheduled for March 30 and March 31, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM at the Parliamentary Conference Hall. Each aspirant will be required to pay a nomination fee of UGX 3 million and secure endorsement from at least five Members of Parliament, with each MP allowed to support no more than two candidates. After verification of nominations, Parliament is expected to conduct the by-election on or before April 15, 2026.
Although the by-election will be conducted under EALA election rules, which aim to ensure gender balance and representation of special interest groups, the NRM’s internal selection process is expected to play a decisive role. With the party holding a parliamentary majority, its chosen flagbearers typically have a strong advantage in the final vote conducted by Parliament.
The announcement has already triggered heightened political activity, with several aspiring candidates reportedly lobbying Members of Parliament and engaging party officials at NRM headquarters in Kyadondo. Aspirants are presenting their credentials, experience in governance, and commitment to regional integration as they seek to represent Uganda in the East African Legislative Assembly.
The upcoming by-election forms part of Uganda’s broader political calendar as the country moves closer to the 2026 general elections. EALA positions remain highly sought after due to their regional influence and strategic importance in shaping policies within the East African Community. The process also highlights the close link between national party politics and regional legislative representation, as Uganda works to maintain a strong voice in East African integration.
