By Aggrey Baba
Tensions flared at the NRM Electoral Commission offices on Wednesday after Rwemiyaga County MP, Hon. Theodore Ssekikubo, raised serious concerns about the academic qualifications of his main opponent, Brig. Gen. Emma Rwashande.
Ssekikubo, who had just completed his nomination to seek re-election as the party’s flagbearer for Rwemiyaga in the 2026 general elections, questioned the suitability of Rwashande’s expected nomination, claiming that the retired General does not meet the minimum academic standards set by law for parliamentary candidates.
Addressing journalists, Ssekikubo said he had submitted endorsement signatures from across the sub-counties of Rwemiyaga totaling 14,312, a figure that he said reflects the strength of his support on the ground.
He claimed that attempts were now underway to introduce a rival candidate whose qualifications, he alleged, do not meet constitutional requirements.
The minimum academic qualification for election as a Member of Parliament in Uganda is the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or its equivalent, as stipulated under Article 80 of the Constitution and Section 4 of the Parliamentary Elections Act.
While Ssekikubo did not present documentary evidence to the press, he maintained that based on records available to him, Rwashande’s credentials largely consist of certificates from workshops and leadership courses. He urged the NRM Electoral Commission to scrutinize such submissions thoroughly before clearing any candidate.
The rivalry between Ssekikubo and Rwashande has been quietly building in recent weeks, with political observers noting the retired general’s increasing presence in Rwemiyaga and reports of support from some sections of the NRM establishment.
Ssekikubo, who has served in Parliament since 2001, is known for his vocal stance on internal party democracy and has frequently clashed with senior party figures over candidate selection and vetting processes.
His latest remarks now place pressure on the party’s electoral body to carefully review all nominations, especially those involving military retirees or individuals transitioning from non-political backgrounds.
As the NRM nominations continue, the developments in Rwemiyaga are expected to draw close attention from both the party leadership and the wider public, given the constituency’s history of tense political contests.
The nomination window remains open through the week, and it is not yet clear whether Rwashande will appear before the close of the process. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
