Allegations of Voter Bribery Rock NRM Central Executive Committee Elections

Strategic Insights -

Engineer Joseph Sewava, who stepped down from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson for Buganda Region election, has called for an investigation into alleged bribery of voters during the recent Central Executive Committee elections. Sewava, citing an alleged hostile environment, made the call during a press conference in Kampala on August 29, 2025. The allegations of voter bribery dominated the highly contested CEC elections, with President Museveni cautioning against the vices and warning that those found guilty would be investigated and face legal action.

Key Takeaways:

  • Engineer Joseph Sewava has called for an investigation into alleged voter bribery during the NRM Central Executive Committee elections.
  • Sewava stepped down from the election due to an alleged hostile environment and claimed that one candidate spent Shs5 billion bribing voters.
  • President Museveni cautioned members against voter bribery and warned that those found guilty would be investigated and face legal action.
  • Mr. Collins Bukenya, a losing candidate, alleged that some voters received money from aspirants.
  • Sewava and Bukenya announced plans to reconcile CEC winners and losers, traversing the country to unite the party.
  • The NRM has decided to investigate the source of the contentious money, with a resolution made by the National Executive Committee and Central Executive Committee.
  • The party may recommend disciplinary measures if the investigation proves that some individuals are liable for voter bribery.
  • Mr. Emmanuel Dombo, NRM's Director of Information and Publicity, emphasized that the party will wait for the investigations to conclude before taking further action.

Statistics:

  • Estimated amount spent by one candidate on bribing voters: Shs5 billion
  • Number of candidates who contested for National Vice Chairperson (Kampala): at least 2 (Mr. Collins Bukenya and Mr. Salim Uhuru)
  • Number of candidates who contested for Buganda Region Vice Chairperson: at least 2 (Engineer Joseph Sewava and the eventual winner)
  • Percentage of CEC winners who posted insulting messages on social media: unknown
  • Year of the next general election: 2026

Sources:

  • "Engineer Joseph Sewava calls for probe into voter bribery" by Red Pepper, no date provided
  • "NRM to investigate source of controversial money" by Observer, no date provided