Opposition eye SIG seats to loosen NRM's grip in Bukedi

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As the Electoral Commission (EC) moves forward with the nomination process for special interest group (SIG) elections, set to close on June 10, 2025, opposition parties across the Bukedi sub-region are intensifying their campaigns.

Their goal: to unseat the long-dominant National Resistance Movement (NRM) from key local positions.

The SIG elections, which reserve seats for youth, older persons, and persons with disabilities, are seen as vital platforms for amplifying marginalised voices—something the opposition is not taking lightly.

In Busia district, the National Unity Platform (NUP) is actively showcasing its candidates.

Party leaders have raised concerns over what they allege is a close relationship between the NRM and the Electoral Commission, accusing the latter of failing to provide adequate civic education, a move they argue reflects bias.

“The NRM has held these positions for years through apparent collusion with the Electoral Commission of Uganda, who have failed to properly educate the electorate. But our ‘protest vote’ strategy is the only way to remove these uncaring leaders who have hindered Uganda’s development for years,” said Kennedy Wanyama, NUP promoter in Busia.

George Wafula, NUP youth coordinator for the Bukedi sub-region, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the urgency for political transformation.

“This is our chance to reclaim these positions and advocate for the needs of our communities,” he said.

Beyond Busia, the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) is also preparing for the upcoming elections.

In Tororo district, party leaders are mobilising support and urging young candidates to take the grassroots elections seriously, recognising their significance in revitalising the UPC’s presence in Bukedi.

Speaking during a youth gathering on June 7, 2025, at his residence in Nagongera, political pundit and UPC ideologist Joseph Ocheino underscored the importance of the polls to the party’s future.

“The grassroots elections are paramount in regaining our party’s strength in Bukedi. That is why these candidates must take this opportunity seriously to secure their positions and prove our strength to the people ahead of 2026,” said Ocheino.

His views were supported by Mzee Ojwang Obbo, the district UPC chairperson, who stressed the strategic importance of these positions for a party with a storied legacy.

“The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) played a pivotal role in Uganda’s independence, with its founding principles of freedom and human rights still resonating today,” said Obbo.

As the SIG elections approach, opposition parties see an opportunity to erode the NRM’s local dominance. Meanwhile, the National Electoral Commission is expected to uphold transparency and diligence to ensure a free and fair voting process.