Ssekikubo Parts Ways with NRM After Bruising Defeat
For more than two decades, Theodore Ssekikubo was a fiery and outspoken figure within the National Resistance Movement (NRM). This presence energized his supporters in Lwemiyaga County while often unsettling party leaders.
But after years of battles, bruising primaries, and repeated petitions, Ssekikubo has reached his breaking point.
“I am done with NRM. I cannot continue being part of a party that does not respect the will of the people,” he declared, following the NRM Election Disputes Tribunal’s ruling upholding Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Emmanuel Rwashande as the party’s flag bearer for Lwemiyaga in the 2026 elections.
Ssekikubo’s petition, alleging vote rigging, intimidation, and manipulation of declaration forms, was dismissed, with the tribunal ruling that the irregularities were minor and did not materially affect results.
Known for his independence, Ssekikubo has long challenged what he called the “excesses” of his party, clashing with local leaders and powerful figures in Sembabule. Despite this, he remained under the NRM banner—until now.
“Even as I consult my people, I am sure that NRM is no longer my party. They have pushed me to the edge, and I am going to sit with my people and forge a way forward,” he told Nile Post.
The Lwemiyaga primaries were chaotic, with allegations of non-delegates voting, polling station blockages by UPDF soldiers, and forged declaration forms inflating Rwashande’s votes. Yet the tribunal remained unmoved; Rwashande received 16,358 votes to Ssekikubo’s 8,702.
Though he has not publicly declared his next move, close associates hint at an independent candidacy. Analysts warn his exit could destabilize the NRM in Sembabule and embolden other disgruntled cadres.
NRM officials, including Emmanuel Ddombo, the party’s communications director, urge Ssekikubo to reconsider, saying,
“NRM is a mass party. Differences can be resolved inside, not outside.”
For Ssekikubo, however, reconciliation appears off the table.
“I am not talking about NRM anymore, I am moving forward,” he said, closing a chapter that has defined his political career for nearly 25 years.
The once-loyal NRM firebrand now faces a new political dawn—one without the yellow flag he carried, challenged, and has finally abandoned.
