Politics 5 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

NRM's Ruyondo Declared Women Council Chair Unopposed After Rival Withdraws

Ann Lumumba Ruyondo, the NRM flag bearer, has been declared the unopposed chairperson of the National Women Council after her independent rival, Ambassador Joy Ruth Acheng, withdrew from the race. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nrm-flag-bearer-ruyondo-wins-women-council-race-unopposed-after-acheng-quits-5585220

Ambassador Joy Ruth Acheng, a key figure and Uganda’s representative to the Bahamas, unexpectedly withdrew her independent candidacy for the National Women Council chairperson position on September 4, 2026. This move paved the way for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate, Ann Lumumba Ruyondo, to secure the leadership role without opposition at a delegates’ conference held at Kyambogo College.

Acheng cited her desire to maintain peace and unity among Ugandan women as the primary reason for her withdrawal. She explicitly dismissed any suggestions of financial inducement, emphasizing her loyalty to the NRM party and President Yoweri Museveni. “As a woman of Uganda who has benefited and has been built by the government of NRM, I cannot go beyond my President. No one gave me even a coin to step down. I did it for the unity of women and for the best interest of NRM,” Acheng stated.

In her acceptance speech, Ruyondo expressed gratitude to Acheng for her decision and pledged to work collaboratively with all women leaders to advance the women’s agenda. She also acknowledged the trust placed in her by the delegates, many of whom are her seniors, and promised to be guided by their experience. “Some of you are older than me but you have given me your trust, I won’t disappoint you. I promised to work with you. I have people to guide me on this journey,” Ruyondo said.

Other positions within the National Women Council also saw unopposed victories. Agnes Kirabo Nantongo was elected vice chairperson, Hope Nankunda secured the role of finance secretary, and Among Shakila was named publicity secretary. The NRM Women’s League national chairperson, Adrine Kobusingye, welcomed Acheng’s decision, viewing it as a positive step towards reconciliation within the party, which has been working to address internal divisions following recent general elections.

The Electoral Commission spokesperson, Julius Mucunguzi, confirmed that these elections marked the conclusion of Uganda’s 2025/2026 electoral roadmap.