Kibuku, Uganda: The National Chairman of the NRM Pressure Groups Network, Mr Sserubiri Frank, narrowly escaped a violent confrontation during a rally in Kibuku District on Sunday, September 07, as angry party loyalists accused him of undermining the ruling party ahead of the 2026 elections.
Serubiri, who also serves as Assistant RDC for Gomba District, had arrived with a large team from Kampala, Mukono, and Busoga to launch the Kibuku District office of the NRM Pressure Groups Network.
The initiative, supported by Eastern Region chairman Hasaga Yosia and district chairperson Kapio Sabani, aimed to bolster support for President Museveni and NRM candidates. Instead, it sparked deep suspicion and unrest among local party supporters.
However, tensions escalated after the conspicuous absence of the district chairman Hajji Shariff Sebakaki, and elected leaders, including MPs, Woman MPs, LC V, LC III, and councilors.
Many attendees questioned the legitimacy of Serubiri’s team, accusing them of being “rebels” within the party. Frustration was further fueled when participants, many traveling long distances, reported not receiving promised transport refunds or meals, prompting them to demand back the plastic chairs provided at the venue.
The rally erupted into chaos, forcing Serubiri and his delegation to flee under police supervision. Hon. Augustine Majanga Moleka, District Councillor for Bulangila Town Council, condemned the rally, saying, “Pressure groups are normally associated with opposition parties. Establishing one within the ruling party only creates confusion, and we will not tolerate it.”
District NRM chairperson Hajji Sebakaki blamed security for failing to verify the group’s legitimacy, while RDC Musiho Samuel defended the event, insisting proper procedures were followed and that security agencies were fully informed. He described critics as “misguided” and emphasized that the pressure groups are meant to enhance mobilization for President Museveni.
Adding to the tensions, Moleka accused senior figures, including Hon. Namuyangu Jennifer Kacha Byakatonda and First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga, of fueling divisions in Kibuku after recent political setbacks.
Meanwhile, Hon. Katooko Damba Sylvia Ssubi, NRM flag bearer for District Woman MP, distanced herself from the Pressure Groups Network, saying she had not been consulted and was surprised by the presence of members linked to the Office of the National Chairman Pressure Group.
The Kibuku rally has exposed deep fissures within the NRM, raising questions about the role of pressure groups and whether they serve to unify or divide the party as the 2026 elections approach.
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