Kururagire’s Political Earthquake: How One Man Is Reshaping The West For Museveni’s 2026 Triumph

By Frank Kamuntu

As Uganda edges closer to the 2026 general elections, political energies are intensifying across the country. But in western Uganda—a region both crucial to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and historically prone to internal frictions—a quiet political renaissance is underway. At its center is Prosper Tuhaire Kururagire, the newly elected Mbarara District NRM Chairman, whose focus is as much about restoring party cohesion as it is about winning votes.

A Strategist Restoring The Soul Of The Party

In a political climate marked by factionalism, especially within the NRM’s traditional bases, Kururagire’s leadership stands out for its focus on healing, rebuilding trust, and empowering the grassroots. Rather than rush into superficial politicking, he has methodically brought order to the party’s internal processes—starting with the recent primaries in Mbarara, which unfolded peacefully under his watch.

What could have been a turbulent contest turned into a case study in coordination and discipline—clear indicators that Kururagire is not simply managing politics, but reshaping it from within.

Kururagire’s influence is being felt far beyond Mbarara. The newly constructed NRM district office—built from his own resources—is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a living hub for re-engagement, drawing back disillusioned cadres and grassroots voices. Leaders from across Ankole are beginning to echo the same message: Kururagire is bringing people back to the party.

“He’s not just mobilizing for Museveni—he’s rebuilding the foundation of the NRM in the west,” said one party insider. “And he’s doing it by listening, not dictating.”

Ties That Strengthen, Not Divide

Kururagire’s strong connection to President Museveni’s brother, Sedrack Kaguta Nzeire, is often cited as evidence of his rising stature within the movement. But unlike others who use political alliances for personal positioning, Prosper has leveraged these relationships to build bridges—connecting rural mobilizers with national leadership and ensuring the President’s message resonates where it matters most.

While many district leaders are still catching their breath after the primaries, Kururagire is looking at the big picture. His mobilization blueprint spans the entirety of Ankole and parts of Kigezi, aiming not just for high vote counts, but for a unified, energized NRM base. His emphasis is clear: a strong, cohesive movement is the only path to sustainable victory.

In this way, Prosper Tuhaire Kururagire is redefining what it means to lead in the NRM—not just a vote-getter, but a party-builder, a unifier, and a strategist with one eye on 2026 and the other on the NRM’s long-term legacy.