The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has distanced itself from an upcoming presidential debate organised by NTV Uganda, saying its candidate, President Yoweri Museveni, will not take part.
In a statement released on Friday, the NRM said its attention had been drawn to an advert circulating on social media announcing the NTV Presidential Debate 2025, scheduled for Sunday, November 30th.
The party accused NTV of creating the impression that President Museveni was among the confirmed participants, despite what they described as late and improper communication.
“For the record, the NRM only received the invitation on 21st November 2025, long after the Electoral Commission had approved the candidates’ campaign programme,” the statement read. “Such a debate was neither brought to the prior consideration of the candidates nor included in the EC-approved programme. Our Presidential Candidate is therefore not preparing to participate in any such debate. #ProtectingTheGains.”
NTV Pushes Ahead With Debate
Despite the NRM’s stance, NTV Uganda is pushing ahead with what it has described as a major national broadcast to test accountability, leadership and vision ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“Presidential candidates face Ugandans! On 30th November, NTV Uganda brings the nation together for a night of accountability, vision, and leadership,” the station posted on X. The #NTVPresidentialDebate2025 will air from 8:00 pm on NTV and Spark TV, and will be streamed online via NTV.co.ug and the YOTV app.
The debate lineup announced by NTV includes eight candidates: Frank Buteera (Revolutionary People’s Party), Mugisha Muntu (ANT), Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (NUP), Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (NRM), Robert Kasibante (National Peasants’ Party), Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC), Mubarak Munyagwa (Common Man’s Party) and Joseph Mabirizi (Conservative Party).
It remains unclear whether NTV will adjust the programme following the NRM’s declaration.
Opposition Candidates Confirm Attendance
Opposition candidates have welcomed the debate, framing it as a crucial moment for voters to hear alternative visions for the country.
FDC’s Nathan Nandala Mafabi confirmed his participation, saying the forum offers “another chance to share how we plan to fix the economy and put money in people’s pockets.”
NUP’s Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, used his announcement to directly challenge President Museveni.
“I will be there to share our vision for a New Uganda and to challenge Dictator Museveni on whatever new lies he wants to tell the people of Uganda after 40 years of deception and failed promises,” he posted on X. “See you then! #FreeUgandaNow.”
What Happens Next?
With just a day to go, the NRM’s withdrawal introduces uncertainty into what had been billed as a landmark media event in the election season.
NTV has not yet issued a public response to the party’s statement. However, preparations for Sunday’s broadcast are ongoing.
Whether President Museveni’s absence will weaken the debate’s national impact — or amplify scrutiny of his rivals — remains to be seen.
