A section of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) youth under their umbrella”The revivalist movement of the NRM”, led by Isaac Akampurira Rukanda, has filed a petition in the High Court, seeking to nullify all internal leadership positions within the ruling party. They argue that the terms of office for the officials expired in 2021, yet elections have not been held, violating the party’s constitution.

Rukanda claims in his petition that the continued occupation of these offices without fresh elections undermines the principles of democracy and the rule of law. “The officials’ extended tenure violates the NRM constitution, which explicitly outlines term limits for officeholders,” he stated.

The petition names key party figures, including the Secretary General and the chairperson of the Electoral Commission, as respondents, accusing them of failing to organize timely elections despite repeated calls. The petitioners also allege that the leadership used the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse to delay elections, even as Uganda resumed normal operations.

Rukanda is calling on the court to intervene by declaring the leadership positions vacant and directing the party to hold elections in accordance with its constitution. The case has sparked debate over internal democracy and governance within the NRM, Uganda’s long-dominant political force.

NRM officials have not yet responded to the petition, leaving party members and political observers awaiting their next move.