The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has lost his seat on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) after a hotly contested election on Wednesday night.
Baryomunsi, who was seeking re-election as NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, was defeated by Eng. Jonard Asiimwe, who polled 4,044 votes (58.9%) against the minister’s 2,303 votes. Blaise Kamugisha finished third with 339 votes.
In the Buganda region, Minister of State for Microfinance, Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, emerged victorious after defeating businessman Moses Karangwa in another highly competitive race.
Speaking shortly before the official declaration of results, Dr. Baryomunsi rejected the process, alleging irregularities.
“Whether I win or lose, I will not accept the results. They will be illegitimate,” he said.
The CEC elections are part of the ruling party’s internal polls to fill top leadership positions ahead of the 2026 general elections. Delegates from across the country gathered this week to vote for regional vice chairpersons, a process seen as critical in shaping the NRM’s mobilisation strategy.
CEC, chaired by President Yoweri Museveni, is the party’s highest decision-making organ and plays a central role in guiding political and electoral strategy. This year’s elections attracted high-profile contenders, including cabinet ministers and senior party mobilisers, underscoring the stakes within the ruling party.
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