A power struggle has emerged within the ruling National Resistance Movement in Masaka District, as newly elected councilors compete for the influential position of District Speaker ahead of the 2026–2031 term.
The NRM, which commands a dominant majority of 15 out of 17 council seats, is virtually assured of taking all key leadership positions in the district council.
The opposition, specifically the National Unity Platform (NUP) and independent candidates, holds just one seat each, leaving little room for external competition.
However, the contest has instead shifted inward, with growing divisions threatening party cohesion.
Several high-profile contenders have intensified lobbying efforts to secure support from fellow councilors ahead of next month’s swearing-in ceremonies.
Godfrey Ssebwana, the councilor-elect for Buwunga Sub-county, confirmed he has been traversing the district in a bid to build consensus around his candidacy.
He identified Peter Ssenkungu, the Workers’ representative and a veteran former NRM District Chairperson, as his strongest rival.
Immaculate Namaganda, the district’s representative for Persons with Disabilities, has also joined the race, citing her extensive experience in local government.
She argues that her professional background gives her an edge over what she described as “newcomers” in the contest.
Youth Representative Benjamin Mukisa is equally vying for the seat, campaigning on a platform centered on education and legal literacy, particularly regarding the Local Government Act.
Mukisa maintains that his district-wide mandate places him in a better position to serve impartially compared to candidates representing specific constituencies.
The escalating rivalry has drawn concern from senior party leadership. The State Minister for Microfinance, Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, issued a stern warning to the councilors against internal divisions, cautioning that infighting could undermine both party unity and service delivery.
“You must avoid these tug-of-wars. If you continue fighting over positions, you stand to lose a lot more as a party,” Kasolo warned.
In a bid to defuse tensions, Kasolo directed NRM District Chairperson Harma Muwuulya to work closely with District Chairperson-elect John Kakande to convene a reconciliation meeting.
The objective, he said, is to agree on a consensus candidate for the speakership and other committee positions before the official elections scheduled for May.
Political analysts say the outcome of the internal negotiations will not only determine the leadership of the Masaka District Council but also test the NRM’s ability to manage internal democracy while maintaining unity in its strongholds.
