Background: The Issue of Independents in Ugandan Politics

Linos Ngompek, the Member of Parliament for Kibanda North in Kiryandogo district, has voiced strong support for a bill that would prevent candidates who loose party primaries from contesting in the general election as independents. This proposal stems from concerns about internal party divisions and the potential for independents to undermine the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) partyS chances of success.

Ngompek, a former Resident District Commissioner, secured his seat in 2021 and recently won the NRM primaries for the 2026-2031 term, defeating five other contenders, including his predecessor, Hon. Taban Amin.

Ngompek’s Concerns and Proposed Solution

despite a significant victory margin – over 13,000 votes – in the primaries,Ngompek believes that the presence of independents poses a substantial threat to the NRM. Taban Amin, his closest rival, has already announced his intention to run as an self-reliant candidate.

Speaking to Watchdog,Ngompek emphasized the need for party discipline and cohesion. He urged the NRM’s National Chairman and Central Executive Committee (CEC) to address the issue urgently. He believes amending the Political Parties and Organisation’s Act to disqualify candidates who lose internal party elections would be a crucial step.

The issue of independents will bring down the NRM if not correctly and swiftly addressed.There is need to ensure party discipline and cohesion by enhancing party’s control over its members.

Ngompek argues that such a change would foster internal discipline and strengthen the party’s overall unity.

Key Factors in Ngompek’s Re-election

Ngompek attributes his success to fulfilling promises made to his constituents. He highlighted his commitment to supporting youth and women, as well as investing in sports and community development.

He detailed specific initiatives,including providing sports equipment (footballs,jerseys,shoes),supplying tents and chairs for community groups,and actively representing their interests in Parliament.

“When I first came to my people to ask for their mandate, I made commitments that I have remained true to. We promise to support the youth and the women and this we have done throughout. We have supported sports and talents through providing foot balls, jerseys, shoes, we have bought tentsand chairs for different groups and in Parliament, their voice has always been heard. I think that’s why they thought I needed to be rewarded in order to continue the good work.”

Future Plans and Focus Areas

Looking ahead, Ngompek plans to prioritize economic empowerment through skills-based training and entrepreneurial support.He identifies joblessness as a major challenge in his constituency and aims to address it through targeted programs.