By Caroline.N
Members of Parliament elect from the ruling National Resistance Movement are preparing to attend a strategic retreat at Kyankwanzi as the country transitions into the Parliament of Uganda Twelfth Parliament.
The retreat, scheduled to begin in early April at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, will bring together both newly elected and returning legislators under the ruling party. The programme is part of the party’s long standing tradition of orienting its members before the official opening of a new parliamentary term.
According to party officials, the retreat will focus on equipping legislators with a clear understanding of the party’s ideology, governance priorities, and legislative agenda. The sessions are expected to guide MPs on how to effectively execute their roles while maintaining cohesion within the ruling party ranks.
The Kyankwanzi gathering comes at a time of significant political alignment following the 2026 general elections. Several independent Members of Parliament have already signalled willingness to cooperate with the NRM, with some expected to attend the retreat alongside party legislators.
Political observers note that the inclusion of independent MPs reflects a broader strategy by the ruling party to consolidate its influence in the upcoming Parliament. With a large number of independents elected, cooperation agreements are seen as critical in shaping voting patterns and legislative outcomes in the new term.
The retreat is also expected to emphasise discipline, unity, and a shared vision among legislators. Historically, such gatherings at Kyankwanzi have featured ideological training, policy discussions, and direct engagement with top party leadership, including the party chairman and senior government officials.
As Uganda prepares for the Twelfth Parliament, which will run from 2026 to 2031, the Kyankwanzi retreat is seen as a crucial step in setting the tone for governance and legislative business. Analysts argue that the effectiveness of the upcoming Parliament will largely depend on how well legislators are prepared to balance party interests with national priorities. The retreat therefore offers an opportunity for MPs to align on key issues, including economic development, service delivery, and national unity.