The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has secured a landslide victory in the Kassanda District youth parish council elections, winning 694 out of 764 seats.
This decisive win marks a significant setback for the National Unity Platform (NUP), which managed to secure only 70 seats despite its notable parliamentary gains in 2021.
The elections were held peacefully across 15 sub-counties and town councils, with NRM sweeping all seats in several areas, including Mbilizi, Myanzi, Manyogaseka, Kamuli, and Kitumbi sub-counties.
Kiganda Town Council recorded NRM’s highest tally, with 88 of 90 seats.
NUP’s losses were particularly pronounced in its strongholds, with the party winning just 2 of 36 seats in Nalutuntu and 12 of 63 seats in Kassanda Sub-County.
These results have raised concerns for NUP leaders Frank Kabuye and Patrick Nsamba, who represent these areas in parliament.
Dr. Michael Bukenya Kyabikoola, NRM’s District Executive Committee chairman, attributed the victory to robust grassroots mobilization and the appeal of government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM).
“The youth have reaffirmed NRM’s leadership,” Bukenya said. “Our focus on poverty alleviation and service delivery resonates.”
Political analysts believe President Yoweri Museveni’s recent visit, where he promised improved roads, electricity, and telephony services, played a significant role in bolstering NRM’s rural support.
“NUP’s urban appeal hasn’t translated here,” said Dr. Sarah Nakiganda, a political analyst. “NRM’s delivery on tangible projects gives them an edge.”
However, critics argue that NRM’s control over local governance may have influenced the outcome.
Kassanda’s Resident District Commissioner Phoebe Namulindwa praised the youth’s discipline, urging them to sustain civility.
The results signal a strong NRM resurgence ahead of the 2026 general elections, posing a formidable challenge for NUP’s ambitions.
