By Our Reporter
In a strong show of grassroots support, Jonard Asiimwe has taken a commanding lead in an online opinion poll gauging public sentiment on the upcoming race for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) Vice Chairmanship for Western Uganda.
The poll, shared widely across WhatsApp platforms, shows Jonard Asiimwe receiving 317 votes, far outpacing his closest rival, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, who garnered 44 votes, and Duncan Abigaba, who trailed with just 13 votes.
Asiimwe’s surge in popularity signals a shift in political momentum within the ruling party’s western bloc, with analysts suggesting his appeal stems from his consistent grassroots mobilization, professional image, and message of reform and inclusivity.
In the poll’s accompanying visuals, Asiimwe is seen in a sharply tailored navy blue suit with a signature yellow tie and pocket square, symbolizing his alignment with NRM’s branding yet showcasing a modern, forward-looking persona. In contrast, Baryomunsi — a seasoned politician and Minister of ICT and National Guidance — appears more laid back in a yellow NRM shirt, reflecting his longstanding affiliation with the party establishment.
Jonard Asiimwe’s growing popularity, especially among youth and first-time delegates, has been attributed to his digital outreach, community-level engagements, and reputation as a fresh voice in NRM’s leadership landscape. His supporters tout him as a unifier who brings both corporate discipline and grassroots sensibility to the table.
“This is not just about numbers. It’s about hope,” said one enthusiastic supporter in Mbarara. “Asiimwe represents a new dawn for Western Uganda’s voice in the CEC.”
While online polls are not official indicators of electoral outcomes, they often reflect prevailing public mood, especially in tightly contested races. The real test will come when the NRM convenes its national delegates conference, where party loyalists will vote for who should steer the Western region’s agenda at the highest level of the party’s leadership.
If these early signals are anything to go by, Jonard Asiimwe may very well be on course to become a formidable contender — and perhaps the new face of NRM’s future in Western Uganda.