In a dramatic turn just days after being nominated, Shartsi Kuteesa Musherure, the current Member of Parliament for Mawogola North and daughter of the former Foreign Affairs Minister Sam Kuteesa, has announced her withdrawal from the upcoming National Resistance Movement-NRM party primaries.
Her decision was confirmed in an official statement issued from her office, citing reflections on the chaotic events of the 2021 NRM primaries, in which she faced off against President Yoweri Museveni’s younger brother, Sodo Kaguta. That contest was marred by violent incidents and bitter divisions in Sembabule District, prompting a high-level intervention by President Museveni himself. Eventually, Sodo stepped down, allowing Musherure to contest unopposed on the NRM ticket.
Now, in what appears to be a reciprocal move grounded in both party loyalty and personal conviction, Musherure steps aside ahead of the July 16 party primaries. She pointed to “unfortunate events” of 2021 where “the people of Mawogola North were unable to freely exercise their constitutional right to choose their leaders” and emphasized that “interventions to avert a similar situation have been considered.”
Musherure’s statement followed a meeting with President Museveni, who is also the NRM party chairman, as well as consultations with her family. She cited four core reasons for her withdrawal: deep respect for the President and his guidance; the desire to protect her supporters from the insecurity and intimidation experienced during previous primaries; a commitment to preserving community unity; and a wish to maintain cohesion within the ruling party.
Her rival from the 2021 contest, Sodo Kaguta, confirmed his intent to contest this time, telling journalists that an understanding had been reached four years ago—Musherure would serve one term, and he would be given the opportunity to represent the constituency next.
In her farewell message to constituents, Musherure expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the chance to serve and described her time in Parliament as “selfless service” and a fulfillment of duty. She also praised her “Goberera Initiative” team for their active oversight of government programs, calling their performance “sterling.”
“To all my supporters, I share this decision with a heavy heart,” she wrote, acknowledging the disappointment it may cause. “But I am comforted by the belief that it is in the ashes of such setbacks that the seeds of future success germinate.”
Although stepping back from the race, Musherure assured the people of Mawogola North that her service to them continues. “I remain ready to serve you. God bless you,” she concluded.
Her exit significantly reshapes the contest for the NRM flag in Mawogola North, with Sodo Kaguta now positioned as the frontrunner in the upcoming party primaries.