A recent nationwide survey conducted by Public Opinions, a leading research and public awareness firm, has revealed that a significant majority of National Resistance Movement (NRM) delegates are satisfied with the leadership of party Secretary General Richard Todwong and the head of the Office of the NRM National Chairman (ONC), Hadijah Namyalo.
Covering 130 districts between July 20 and August 23, 2025, the survey found that 80% of delegates attending the upcoming NRM National Conference are pleased with the performance of both leaders.
Delegates cited the collaborative relationship between Todwong and Namyalo as crucial in fostering party unity, peace, and a smooth lead-up to the national conference.
Divergent Views Across Party Ranks
While Todwong received high approval from sub-county NRM leaders (80%), support was notably lower among district chairpersons (45%), some of whom raised concerns over resource allocation and intra-party dynamics. However, the survey suggests that many of these criticisms come from individuals allegedly aiming to misuse party structures for personal interests.
In contrast, 84% of district committee members praised Namyalo for her effective grassroots mobilization and leadership in implementing the Presidential Economic Empowerment Initiative (PEEI). They called on President Museveni to allocate more resources to her office to boost community empowerment efforts.
Still, 44% of district chairpersons expressed discontent with Namyalo, accusing her of bypassing their offices and working directly with grassroots mobilizers. Some also accused her of reporting them to the President for alleged misconduct, including land grabbing, corruption, and failure to mobilize support for Museveni.
Regional Endorsements and Trends
The survey revealed significant regional variations:Western Uganda: 85% endorsed Namyalo; 72% endorsed Todwong.
North Ankole (Kiruhura, Kazo): 98% praised Todwong.
Karamoja: 95% support for Todwong; 65% for Namyalo.
Buganda Region: 89% support for Namyalo; 59% for Todwong.
West Nile: Both leaders received 80% approval.
Elgon Sub-region: Namyalo 88%; Todwong 76%.
Bunyoro: 98% praised Todwong’s unity efforts; Namyalo lauded for village-level vote protection recruitment.
Busoga: 90% for Namyalo, who is credited for consistent engagement since 2022; 52% for Todwong.
Teso: Both scored 89% for their peaceful, unifying roles.
In Lango, 90% backed Todwong, and 80% Namyalo. In Acholi, Namyalo scored highly for her grassroots mobilization, while 67% endorsed Todwong despite concerns about limited support to the region.
Mixed Sentiments from Party Flag Bearers and Youth
Notably, 55% of NRM parliamentary flag bearers expressed dissatisfaction with both leaders, citing lack of support during legal challenges and intra-party disputes.
Meanwhile, 70% of NRM delegates indicated they may not support all official parliamentary flag bearers in the 2026 elections, preferring NRM-leaning independents whom they view as more legitimate or representative.
Among youth and women at the conference, 80% stated they would vote for independent NRM candidates in protest against what they described as corruption, injustice, and impunity within the party’s internal systems.
Still, both Todwong and Namyalo were commended by PWDs (People with Disabilities) and NRM special organs for their inclusiveness, teamwork, and open-door leadership styles.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Delegates overwhelmingly called on President Museveni to assign more responsibilities and resources to Hadijah Namyalo, citing her strong connection with grassroots voters.
They also urged that Richard Todwong remain Secretary General to guide the NRM through the 2026 elections, praising him as a “peaceful, incorruptible, and effective” leader.
However, they also called for reforms at the NRM Secretariat to improve inclusivity, transparency, and internal cohesion ahead of the polls.
About the Survey
Public Opinions, led by Buyinza Adam Luzindana, conducted the survey. Luzindana is a former member of the NRM National Executive Council and a veteran of youth political mobilization. He now leads efforts in strategic engagement, diplomacy, and business development, including publishing the Uganda Development Champions Journal.
