Kampala – National Resistance Movement (NRM) stalwart Nowomugisha Sedrack Nzaire has pulled out of the race for NRM National Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, a move he says was made “in the spirit of unity.” But party insiders reveal he was strongly advised if not pressured by top leadership to step aside.
Nzaire, a former NRM district chairperson in Kiruhura and brother to President Yoweri Museveni, confirmed his withdrawal in a Thursday statement, citing consultations with the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC). He said the decision was intended to foster harmony, strengthen cohesion, and consolidate the party’s gains ahead of future political battles.
“Personal ambition must always give way to the collective good of the Party and the Country,” Nzaire stated.
However, multiple sources disclosed that during a CEC meeting in Entebbe, President Museveni himself directed Nzaire to drop out of the race. This followed earlier pressure from Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who had also advised him to withdraw.
Despite initially insisting he was 50 years old with “his own political ambitions” and unwilling to “live under a person’s armpit forever,” Nzaire eventually conceded, signaling loyalty to party cohesion over individual ambition.
In his remarks, Nzaire urged Ugandans to continue rallying behind the NRM as the vehicle for progress and transformation. He also extended best wishes to colleagues still contesting for the vice chairmanship.
Currently serving as a party mobilizer in Western Uganda, Nzaire remains a significant figure in the NRM despite this withdrawal. His move underscores the internal power dynamics within the ruling party as it gears up for the 2026 general elections.