Independent Candidate Bahati Accused of Masquerading as NRM Flag

State Minister for Industry, Hon. David Bahati, is facing intensified scrutiny in Ndorwa West after fresh allegations emerged accusing him of presenting himself as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, despite running as an independent candidate.

Bahati, who lost the NRM primaries to Counsel Eliab Naturinda, has been widely reported wearing NRM yellow regalia while mobilising support across the constituency.

The controversy escalated after photos circulated showing groups of his supporters dressed in bright yellow outfits and holding large campaign posters featuring Bahati’s image alongside that of President Yoweri Museveni.

The posters closely resemble official NRM campaign materials, a detail critics argue is “deliberately crafted to confuse voters” into believing Bahati still represents the ruling party.

According to several residents, the imagery has already caused confusion in some villages, with many voters assuming that Bahati remains the official NRM candidate. This comes despite the party declaring Naturinda the legitimate flag bearer following his victory in the primaries.

Bahati’s critics claim his continuous use of party-branded colors and symbols is a tactic aimed at winning back sympathy from NRM loyalists who rejected him in the primaries.

On the other hand, his supporters insist that wearing yellow does not equate to impersonating the party candidate, noting that Bahati has long been associated with the ruling party and remains a committed member even as an independent.

As campaigns intensify across Kabale District, the debate continues to grow. Some analysts believe Bahati’s strategy may help him recover lost political ground, while others argue that the constituency has already signaled a push for new leadership.

With the general elections approaching, all eyes remain on Ndorwa West to see whether Bahati’s contested campaign style will revive his political fortunes or lead to yet another major setback.