The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Chairperson for Bukedea District, Isaac Epilo, has issued a stern warning to independent parliamentary candidates who continue to invoke President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s name in their campaigns. Epilo described the practice as deceptive, unethical, and a direct violation of the NRM’s established principles and electoral guidelines.
Epilo delivered the warning on Monday while accompanying the NRM Bukedea County flag bearer, David Beecham Okwere, on a series of campaign engagements in Kamturu, Aminit, Kolir, and Kidongole. The district chairperson accused several independent candidates—most of whom were defeated in the NRM primaries—of deliberately misleading voters by claiming they have “secret blessings” from the President.
According to Epilo, such allegations not only amount to spreading falsehoods but also threaten the unity and integrity of the ruling party. He stressed that the NRM would not tolerate political actors who distort facts for electoral advantage, especially in Bukedea, the home district of the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, who also serves as the NRM Second National Vice Chairperson for the Women’s League.
“We will not allow independent candidates to embarrass the party, the Speaker, or President Museveni. Bukedea stands firmly behind the NRM, and no one should manipulate or misuse the President’s name for personal gain,” Epilo said. He further urged voters to remain vigilant and to report any acts of misinformation, noting that such conduct undermines the democratic process the party has built over the years.
Flag Bearer Okwere Calls for Unity and Focused Leadership
During the campaign trail, NRM flag bearer David Beecham Okwere echoed Epilo’s message and urged residents to stay committed to the party’s official leadership structure. He emphasized that President Museveni continues to support only the officially elected NRM flag bearers, and any contrary claims by independent candidates should be dismissed as political gimmicks aimed at confusing the electorate.
Okwere told supporters that Bukedea needs leaders who are truthful, development-minded, and aligned with the party’s vision for socio-economic transformation. He said the community’s biggest challenges—including limited access to clean water, poor infrastructure, unreliable electricity, and gaps in community development—require leaders who will work closely with government institutions to deliver tangible solutions.
“These issues cannot be solved by misleading voters or spreading propaganda. They require dedication, teamwork, and strong links with the central government. I am committed to ensuring that Bukedea receives its fair share of development programs once entrusted with your mandate,” Okwere said.
Residents Applaud Okwere’s Service and Vision
Across the areas visited, residents expressed overwhelming support for Okwere, praising his hands-on approach to community development even before assuming office. Voters highlighted various contributions he has already made to the district, including the installation of security lights, repair of boreholes, support to village savings groups, assistance to orphans, and donations of digital tablets to schools, churches, and local security offices including the GISO and PISO offices.
Many residents contrasted Okwere’s efforts with what they described as ten years of poor performance by incumbent Member of Parliament Ikojo John Bosco. Several voters said they felt abandoned by the sitting MP and believe Okwere represents a new beginning for Bukedea.
“Okwere has come at the right time. He understands our challenges and has already shown commitment to working with the people. We believe he is going straight to Parliament,” a resident from Kolir remarked. Others emphasized that his development record, even without holding an official government position, gives them confidence that he will deliver once elected.
Call for Peaceful and Issue-Based Campaigns
As campaigns intensify ahead of the 2026 general elections, Epilo urged all candidates in Bukedea to maintain peace, respect the electorate, and focus on issue-based campaigns rather than personal attacks or misinformation. He assured residents that the NRM leadership is monitoring campaign activities to ensure compliance with party guidelines.
The Bukedea NRM leadership reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening unity and supporting candidates who uphold party values. With growing support on the ground, Okwere continues to position himself as a front-runner in the Bukedea County race, promising accountable leadership and improved service delivery for all.
