A total of 55 independent Members of Parliament have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), marking a significant political development in Uganda’s 12th Parliament.
The agreement, announced on August 6, allows the independent legislators to work closely with the NRM while retaining their status as independent MPs. Under the arrangement, they will be able to participate in the ruling party’s parliamentary caucus meetings, consultations, and key decision-making processes.
According to NRM leaders, the partnership is voluntary and is aimed at strengthening cooperation within Parliament without requiring the independent legislators to officially join the ruling party.
The latest agreement follows earlier cooperation arrangements reached after the 2026 General Election, when smaller groups of independent MPs also aligned themselves with the NRM. Those discussions were reportedly facilitated by former Speaker Anita Among.
Government officials believe the partnership will improve coordination in Parliament, help build consensus on government policies, and speed up the implementation of the NRM’s manifesto during the current parliamentary term.
The development is expected to reshape parliamentary dynamics, as the ruling party seeks broader support from independent legislators on key legislative and policy matters. However, the move is also likely to spark debate over the role and independence of MPs elected outside political party structures, with political observers expected to closely monitor how the agreement influences parliamentary decision-making in the months ahead.
