NRM opens Kyankwanzi retreat to opposition MPs

KAMPALA – The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has extended an open invitation to opposition politicians to take part in its upcoming parliamentary retreat in Kyankwanzi, in a move the party says is aimed at fostering inclusive dialogue on national development.

According to NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, opposition members willing to attend will not only be welcomed but may also be given a platform to present a paper on the role of opposition in shaping Uganda’s development agenda.

The week-long retreat, scheduled from April 7 to April 15, 2026, will be held at the National Leadership Institute Kyankwanzi. It is primarily designed to orient newly elected Members of Parliament on the party’s ideology, governance priorities, and policy direction.

Todwong said the gathering will bring together first-time NRM MPs, returning legislators, and independent MPs who have expressed willingness to cooperate with the ruling party. He revealed that dozens of independents have already signed cooperation agreements, with more expected to join before the retreat begins.

Participants are required to report to Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala on April 6 for accreditation and health checks before departure to Kyankwanzi the following day.

NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja Nsereko said the retreat will focus on aligning leaders around the party’s broader vision of safeguarding national progress while steering the country toward a higher middle-income status.

She noted that discussions will span key areas such as governance, security, regional geopolitics, and economic policy, alongside the party’s ideological framework often referred to as “Musevenomics.” Other sessions will address infrastructure development, agriculture, human capital, and the legislative responsibilities of Parliament.

Namayanja added that special attention will be given to equipping new and younger MPs with a firm grounding in NRM principles to strengthen their effectiveness in leadership and representation.

The retreat will be officially opened and closed by President Yoweri Museveni, who also serves as the party’s National Chairman.

NRM officials say the Kyankwanzi sessions remain a key platform for shaping policy direction and strengthening cohesion within Parliament, while the inclusion of opposition voices signals an effort to broaden engagement on Uganda’s development path.