Hon. Miriam Mukhaye, Incumbent Independent MP, Seeks NRM Flag for Mbale District Woman MP Seat in 2026

Hon. Miriam Mukhaye, the incumbent Woman Member of Parliament (MP) for Mbale District, has officially expressed her intention to contest for re-election in the upcoming 2026 General Elections—this time under the banner of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. She made her declaration at the NRM Electoral Commission headquarters in Kyadondo, Kampala, where she picked up nomination forms on Wednesday.

Speaking to the media shortly after completing the process, Hon. Mukhaye expressed gratitude to the people of Mbale for the opportunity to serve during the current 2021–2026 term. Although she originally entered Parliament as an independent candidate, Mukhaye affirmed her commitment to now serve under the NRM ticket, citing her track record in health, education, and grassroots development.

“I want to thank the people of Mbale. I’m happy to represent you as Woman MP from 2021 to 2026 and now seeking another term as the NRM flag bearer. Although I came as an independent candidate last time round, I have worked diligently and I’m requesting for your votes,” she said.

Focus on Health and Education

Mukhaye outlined several key achievements and ongoing initiatives in her constituency. One of her most notable projects is the push to upgrade Busiu Health Centre IV in Bungokho County to a fully-fledged district hospital, a campaign she has been championing as a member of the Parliamentary Health Committee.

“We have already secured land for the hospital. We are now requesting government to upgrade it to a district hospital to ease access to quality health services, especially for rural communities who currently travel long distances to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital,” she said.

She also revealed that she has successfully lobbied for an ambulance to support emergency medical services across Mbale District, further strengthening the region’s healthcare delivery system.

In the education sector, Hon. Mukhaye highlighted her lobbying efforts that led to the provision of iron sheets for several schools, including Makhai Seed School. 

She also noted the construction of Bumboi Seed School by the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF), an initiative she hopes the government will officially adopt and support. 

“Our children deserve quality education in decent facilities. That’s why I’m advocating for more resources in this sector,” she emphasized.

Empowering Women and Supporting Development

Beyond health and education, Mukhaye mentioned her ongoing commitment to women empowerment initiatives and support for various community development programs throughout Mbale District. She called on the electorate to renew her mandate so she can expand on these efforts between 2026 and 2031.

“I’m seeking for your mandate as the people of Mbale. Please vote for me as your Woman MP. Let’s move together from 2026 to 2031,” she urged.

Hon. Mukhaye’s declaration comes at a time when the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has officially kicked off its expression of interest and nomination process for party candidates aspiring to various elective offices ahead of the 2026 general elections.

According to NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson Dr. Tanga Odoi, the nomination exercise began on June 2, 2025, and will run until June 15. Official nominations are slated to take place on June 17 at the NRM EC headquarters in Kyadondo.

The party has called upon members across the country to seize this opportunity and express their interest in parliamentary seats, district chairperson positions, and other key local government offices under the NRM ticket.

As the NRM gears up for a competitive 2026 election cycle, the participation of leaders like Hon. Miriam Mukhaye reflects the growing internal momentum within the party and signals a heated race for flag bearer positions, especially in politically active regions like Mbale.

By John Kusolo

Political Correspondent