Rift over Museveni candidacy
The Banyarwanda Museveni 2026 endorsement has sparked division within Uganda’s Banyarwanda community. Two leadership groups, the Council for Abavandimwe led by Frank Gashumba and the Ugandan-Banyarwanda Cultural Development Association (Umubano) headed by Simon Kaitana, remain at odds over supporting President Museveni’s reelection bid.
On August 20, Gashumba declared that all Banyarwanda had endorsed Museveni, calling him the only viable option. He announced plans to tour Uganda later this year to mobilize support. However, Umubano rejected his statement, citing a lack of consultation and stressing that members deserve freedom of political choice.
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Umubano’s rejection and response
Umubano leaders said they will convene a national delegates’ conference to assess all candidates on their records and future promises. Fred Mukasa Mbidde criticized Gashumba’s unilateral move, arguing that government has failed to resolve the Banyarwanda citizenship issue.
He said, “We cannot be the first to endorse Museveni when the Banyarwanda question remains unresolved. We must act tactically.”
Mobilisation head Jumma Kaberuka added that community members belong to multiple political parties, including NUP, NRM, FDC, and DP. Forcing all to support one candidate, he argued, undermines freedom of choice.
Longstanding rivalry
This is not the first dispute between Umubano and the Council for Abavandimwe. Both claim to represent Banyarwanda interests and have clashed over issues ranging from citizenship rights to alleged harassment by government agencies such as NIRA during passport and ID issuance.
The Banyarwanda Museveni 2026 endorsement debate highlights deep divisions that trace back decades. Since the 1960s, questions over citizenship and representation have defined Banyarwanda politics in Uganda.
Citizenship issue remains central
In recent months, President Museveni has issued directives on the Banyarwanda citizenship question, underscoring its importance in national discourse. For many, the ongoing disputes between community groups show how unresolved identity and citizenship concerns continue to influence electoral politics.
The competing voices within the Banyarwanda community may shape how Museveni’s 2026 candidacy is viewed nationally, as endorsements remain contested and political loyalties divided.
