Africa-Press – Uganda. The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has defended its decision to block Igara West Member of Parliament Louis Gafa Mbwatekamwa from participating in the party primaries for the Mbarara City mayoral race, citing a breach of party residency requirements.
Mbwatekamwa, a prominent and often outspoken figure, was disqualified during last week’s nomination process—a move that initially sparked confusion due to the lack of official explanation.
However, addressing journalists in Kampala on Wednesday, NRM legal director Enock Barata clarified that the MP’s disqualification was based on his official residency registration.
“Mbwatekamwa is officially registered as a resident of Gongo village, Kyamuhunga Sub-county in Bushenyi District,” Barata said.
“During the party register update in March 2024, that is where he was captured. Therefore, his attempt to contest in Mbarara City, where he is not officially registered, is against party guidelines.”
The clarification adds context to what has become an increasingly tense political standoff. Mbwatekamwa, unfazed by the ruling, has declared his intention to run for the mayoral seat regardless of the party’s endorsement.
“I will contest for Mbarara City Mayor with or without the NRM flag,” he told supporters earlier this week.
“I am with the people, and the people want me to serve. The struggle continues.”
Mbwatekamwa’s disqualification comes amid a broader NRM effort to tighten its internal nomination and vetting processes ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The party has rolled out a nationwide verification exercise to ensure all candidates meet eligibility requirements.
“This is not about personalities,” Barata said. “It’s about upholding the integrity of our party processes. Every candidate must be vetted against clear criteria, and this includes proof of residency in the area they intend to represent.”
With the NRM now formally out of the picture for Mbwatekamwa, political observers are watching closely to see whether he will mount a successful independent bid in what is shaping up to be a heated mayoral race in Mbarara City.
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