Uganda’s representative to the Bahamas, Ambassador Joy Ruth Acheng, withdrew her independent candidature for the National Women Council chairperson race, giving her rival, National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer Ann Lumumba Ruyondo, an unopposed victory.
Acheng announced her withdrawal on September 4, moments before the winners of the National Women Council and committee leadership positions were declared unopposed at a delegates’ conference held at Kyambogo College.
Addressing delegates and Electoral Commission officials, Acheng said her decision followed consultations and was driven by her desire to preserve peace and unity among Ugandan women.
She also dismissed suggestions that she had been paid to abandon the race, saying her decision was guided by her loyalty to the NRM and President Yoweri Museveni.
‘After consultation and looking into this matter deeply, I decided to withdraw my candidature because, as a woman, mother and diplomat, I don’t want anything that will divide the women of Uganda,’ Acheng said.
‘Secondly, as a woman of Uganda who has benefited and has been built by the government of NRM, I cannot go beyond my President. No one gave me even a coin to step down. I did it for the unity of women and for the best interest of NRM.’
Acheng, who also chairs the Kole District Women Council, pledged to support Ruyondo and draw on her experience to guide the incoming chairperson whenever needed.
She said women needed leadership that listens to their concerns and represents them regardless of their background or circumstances.
Ruyondo, in her maiden speech after being declared National Women Council chairperson unopposed, thanked Acheng for withdrawing from the race and pledged to work with her and other women leaders to advance the women’s agenda.
‘Some of you are older than me but you have given me your trust, I won’t disappoint you. I promised to work with you. I have people to guide me on this journey,’ Ruyondo said.
Other leaders elected unopposed were Agnes Kirabo Nantongo as vice chairperson, Hope Nankunda as secretary for finance and Among Shakila as publicity secretary.
Adrine Kobusingye, the NRM Women’s League national chairperson, welcomed Acheng’s decision and pledged to support a reconciliation process to keep women united as they pursue their agenda.
The development comes as the NRM continues efforts to address internal divisions following the 2025/2026 general elections.
On March 5, 2026, the ruling party launched a reconciliation process aimed at restoring internal peace, resolving post-election disputes and addressing divisions among its members.
Julius Mucunguzi, the Electoral Commission spokesperson, said the National Women Council and committee elections marked the completion of Uganda’s 2025/2026 electoral roadmap.