Defeated NRM Chairperson Kitata Ibrahim to Run as Independent in Bukoto West
LWENGO – September 2, 2025 | In a significant political development, Mr. Kitata Ibrahim, the current Lwengo District LC5 Chairman, has officially picked nomination forms to contest for the Bukoto West Constituency parliamentary seat as an independent candidate in the 2026 general elections.
This move comes shortly after his defeat in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries, where he lost to the incumbent Member of Parliament, Honourable Muhammed Ssentaayi.
The party primary, which was held recently, was marred by controversy. Mr. Kitata has publicly characterized the electoral process as “chaotic,” suggesting irregularities that he believes compromised the fairness of the vote. Despite this setback within his party’s structures, his decision to enter the race sets the stage for a fierce three-way contest come 2026.
In a statement that highlighted his complex political positioning, Mr. Kitata made a point to reaffirm his loyalty to the NRM party and President Yoweri Museveni. He stated that his decision to run as an independent is a matter of principle and a response to the will of his supporters, rather than an act of defiance against the party leadership.
“I am still a devoted member of the NRM and I pledge my continued support to His Excellency President Museveni and the party’s national objectives,” Kitata said. “However, the people of Bukoto West have expressed their desire for me to represent them, and the chaotic manner in which the primary was conducted did not reflect their will. I am answering their call.”
This development creates a complicated dynamic for the ruling NRM party, which now must face a challenge from a high-profile party member and sitting district chairperson. It forces voters to choose between the party’s official flagbearer, a popular independent candidate who still claims party allegiance, and any opposition candidates who will be in the race.
Political analysts suggest that Kitata’s independent bid could potentially split the NRM vote, making the race for Bukoto West one of the most closely watched constituencies in the central region as the election season heats up.
The Electoral Commission is expected to release the official campaign schedule for all parliamentary aspirants in the coming months.
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