Lwemiyaga County MP Theodore Ssekikubo has publicly denounced the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, accusing it of greed and losing its ideological direction. This follows the dismissal of his petition against retired Brigadier Emmanuel Rwashande’s victory in the recent party primaries.
On Tuesday, the NRM elections tribunal threw out Ssekikubo’s petition, which challenged the legitimacy of Rwashande’s win in the Lwemiyaga County primaries, a contest marred by allegations of violence, intimidation, and irregularities.
According to official results from the party primaries, Rwashande polled 16,358 votes, while Ssekikubo secured 8,702 votes. Other candidates included Joy Kabatsi, who garnered 473 votes, and Jacob Kato, with 11 votes.
Ssekikubo and Kabatsi had jointly filed a complaint, citing widespread intimidation, assault, and even abduction of supporters during the election. Ssekikubo also previously questioned Rwashande’s academic qualifications, arguing he did not meet the minimum requirements for nomination.
In his petition, Ssekikubo asked the tribunal to nullify Rwashande’s victory and declare him the rightful flagbearer. However, the tribunal dismissed the case, stating there was no credible evidence to support claims of vote-rigging or election malpractice.
“It would be erroneous for the tribunal to declare Ssekikubo the winner of a process he himself described as violent and irregular,” the ruling stated.
Following the verdict, a visibly disappointed Ssekikubo announced that he is parting ways with the NRM.
“Even as I consult my people, I am sure that NRM is no longer my party. They have pushed me to the edge, and I am going to sit with my people, and we will forge a way forward. I am not talking about NRM anymore. I am moving forward,” he declared.
Ssekikubo has been a long-time member of the NRM but has often found himself at odds with party leadership. His departure signals growing cracks within the party ahead of the 2026 general elections, especially in areas where internal disputes remain unresolved.
