Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s Vice President, Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo has officially picked her nomination forms for the upcoming NRM primary elections, calling on her party to uphold the principles of transparency, fairness, and unity as it prepares for one of the most hotly contested electoral cycles in recent history.
Alupo made the remarks shortly after her nomination at the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission Headquarters in Kampala, where she emphasized her commitment to democratic principles even within her own party.
“I contested in the last NRM internal elections and lost, but went on to win in the general elections. My appeal this time is for a free and fair process,” she told journalists, a clear nod to past internal tensions.
“I’m ready to abide by the guidelines. I want a contest that brings out the best in us, not divisions.”
Alupo’s remarks come at a critical time when the ruling NRM party is facing increased pressure to demonstrate internal democracy and integrity ahead of the 2026 general elections. With growing interest in key positions from both long-time cadres and emerging youth leaders, tensions over alleged vote rigging, favoritism, and factionalism have clouded past primaries.
By invoking her own experience losing the NRM ticket but winning the general seat in the previous cycle, Alupo sent a subtle but pointed message: the party must clean its house or risk pushing popular figures outside its own structures.
Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo, a former military officer and education minister, has been the Vice President of Uganda since 2021, and is one of the highest-ranking women in the country’s political history. Known for her calm demeanor but strategic thinking, Alupo remains a key player in both the executive and the NRM political machinery.
Her appeal for fairness is seen not just as a personal concern, but as a cautionary statement to the party elite, especially as several top positions across the country are expected to be hotly contested in the primaries.
“When someone at her level raises the issue of fairness in party primaries, it tells you there’s a real credibility gap to address,” noted political commentator Dr. Isaac Mugerwa.
The NRM Electoral Commission has promised reforms and stricter enforcement of guidelines this year, including improved transparency during vote tallying, biometric verification, and dispute resolution processes. However, critics say these promises have been made before, with limited follow-through.
As the nomination window for NRM positions draws to a close, Vice President Alupo’s declaration marks a symbolic yet bold moment in Uganda’s pre-election season.
With her popularity in Teso sub-region and national profile as VP, Alupo’s contest, whether for district MP or a higher party position, will be one to watch, especially if her message of fairness resonates with other senior leaders who have remained silent on internal injustices.
“Democracy begins at home. If we cannot uphold it within the NRM, how can we claim to defend it nationwide?” Alupo concluded.
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