Bududa, Uganda – Bududa Woman MP Agnes Nandutu, who rose to political prominence as a fearless journalist-turned-politician, has officially rejoined the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.
On Tuesday, she was duly nominated to contest in the NRM primaries, seeking a second term in the 2026 General Election.
Nandutu, who joined Parliament in 2021 as an independent candidate after losing in the NRM primaries, says her return to the yellow camp comes after extensive consultations with voters in Bududa District, many of whom reportedly urged her to come home to the party.
“My people said, ‘Agnes, the time has come to return to your political roots,’” Nandutu told journalists shortly after picking up her nomination forms. “I have listened. I’m back.”
Her return marks a political U-turn after years of tension with the party that once denied her the flag, a decision that led her to contest and win as an Independent. Nandutu later served in the cabinet as State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, a position that thrust her into the national spotlight during the controversial iron sheets scandal in early 2023.
She was one of several ministers accused of diverting relief iron sheets meant for vulnerable communities in the Karamoja region. The saga led to public outcry, legal proceedings, and intense scrutiny over accountability and ethics in government.
The scandal tainted her legacy, a fact Nandutu does not ignore.
“I was tried in the court of public opinion, but I remained steadfast,” she said. “I have nothing to hide, and my people know the truth.”
Nandutu’s re-entry into the NRM comes at a time when internal party primaries are expected to be fiercely contested. Her critics, including former NRM flag bearers in Bududa, accuse her of being opportunistic and returning only after losing political favour elsewhere.
However, Nandutu’s supporters argue that her grassroots popularity and media savviness still make her a formidable contender in the Mount Elgon sub-region.
While some see Nandutu’s move as a calculated comeback strategy, others interpret it as a genuine effort to rebuild political trust and strengthen her bond with the ruling party.
“Nandutu understands the NRM machinery. Returning now gives her access to structure, resources, and a clearer path to re-election, especially with 2026 being such a high-stakes election.”
Also Read: Ssenyonyi Demands Equal Pay for Arts Teachers
