Kampala, Uganda | Lwemiyaga County legislator Theodore Ssekikubo has officially resigned from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), citing betrayal and “cupidity” within the party after the dismissal of his recent petition. Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Ssekikubo declared that he no longer feels represented by the NRM and plans to consult his supporters on a new political path.
“This is no longer my party. They have pushed me to the edge,” Ssekikubo said, emphasizing his commitment to work closely with his constituents to determine the way forward. His resignation marks the culmination of years of tension between the outspoken legislator and a party he has served since entering Parliament.
Known for challenging party decisions he deemed undemocratic, Ssekikubo has consistently spoken out against corruption and misuse of office within the NRM. His most recent fallout followed the dismissal of a petition where he accused party leadership of ignoring due process, reinforcing a long history of defiance.
Ssekikubo’s political journey has often put him at odds with the ruling establishment. In 2010, he led efforts to censure former Security Minister Amama Mbabazi over alleged oil corruption, drawing the ire of senior NRM figures. He has faced suspensions and disciplinary measures over accusations of indiscipline, yet retained his parliamentary seat, earning a reputation as an independent-minded legislator willing to oppose his own party when necessary.
Responding to Ssekikubo’s exit, Brig. Gen (Rtd) Emmanuel Rwashande, a senior NRM figure and Ssekikubo’s main rival in Lwemiyaga County, dismissed the departure as inconsequential. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Rwashande likened the NRM to an unstoppable vehicle: “One will get off, millions will get on, and the bus keeps moving forward. We shall not be threatened by chameleons.”
Ssekikubo’s resignation formalizes a long-simmering split with the NRM and sets the stage for a potentially competitive political reshuffle in Lwemiyaga, as observers await his next moves.
Takeaway: Ssekikubo’s departure signals growing dissent within the NRM and highlights the challenges faced by independent-minded legislators. The coming months will reveal whether he forges a new political path or galvanizes support outside the ruling party.