Yusuf Nsibambi joins NRM in a move that reshapes Uganda’s political landscape following the 2026 general elections. The former Forum for Democratic Change deputy president has officially crossed to the ruling National Resistance Movement, marking one of the most notable defections in recent weeks.
The announcement that Yusuf Nsibambi joins NRM was made at the party’s headquarters in Kampala, where Speaker of Parliament Anita Among formally welcomed him into the ruling party. His shift comes shortly after losing the Mawokota South parliamentary seat in the January elections, a race won by the NRM’s Suzan Nakawuki.
Anita Among Welcomes Yusuf Nsibambi Joins NRM
Speaker Anita Among described the development as a strengthening of the ruling party’s commitment to national stability. She said the decision by Nsibambi reflects his belief in the NRM’s agenda and achievements.
Among stated that she personally presented Nsibambi to the party. She noted that he had acknowledged the work done by the NRM and expressed a desire to be part of a team focused on delivering results for the country.
Political observers view the moment as more than a routine party switch. The fact that Yusuf Nsibambi joins NRM signals continued political realignments after the heated 2026 elections.
From Opposition Leader to Ruling Party Member
Nsibambi served as Mawokota South MP and built his reputation as a law lecturer and seasoned opposition figure. However, his recent electoral defeat changed the dynamics of his political journey.
Earlier this month, he met President Yoweri Museveni at State House Entebbe. During that meeting, he reportedly led a delegation of opposition legislators to discuss national reconciliation, political stability, and the release of detainees.
This was not his first engagement with the President. In the past year alone, Nsibambi held multiple meetings with Museveni, emphasizing dialogue during post-election tensions. Analysts say those interactions may have paved the way for the announcement that Yusuf Nsibambi joins NRM.
Among’s Expanding Recruitment Strategy
The development fits into a broader trend of high-profile political crossovers. Anita Among has previously played a role in bringing other lawmakers closer to the ruling party.
Among facilitated the entry of Bardege-Layibi Division MP Ojara Martin Mapenduzi, who signed a memorandum of understanding with the NRM in 2023. Kilak County MP Anthony Akol also formalized his switch from the FDC to the NRM in early 2025.
These shifts highlight the Speaker’s growing influence within the political space. As Yusuf Nsibambi joins NRM, attention is turning to whether more opposition figures could follow a similar path.
Impact on Uganda’s Political Landscape
The decision that Yusuf Nsibambi joins NRM comes at a sensitive time for the opposition. The FDC continues to grapple with internal divisions and electoral setbacks. Losing a senior figure such as Nsibambi may further weaken its position ahead of future political contests.
Supporters of the ruling party argue that such defections demonstrate confidence in government programs and national stability. Critics, however, say the trend reflects the shifting power balance after the elections.
Regardless of perspective, the moment underscores the fluid nature of Uganda’s politics. As realignments continue, the move by Nsibambi is likely to spark debate about loyalty, ideology, and the evolving direction of the country’s political future.