Busia NRM chairman withdraws from party polls
Busia District National Resistance Movement (NRM) Eric Masiga. Photo | David Awori
What you need to know:
- Eng Masiga, who has held the position for 15 years, cited a new role assigned to him by the President as the reason for his withdrawal.
Engineer Eric Masiga, the incumbent Busia District National Resistance Movement (NRM) chairman, has withdrawn his candidature from the party district committee elections, just hours before the polls.
Eng Masiga, who has held the position for 15 years, cited a new role assigned to him by the President as the reason for his withdrawal.
"I hereby withdraw my candidature as the district chairperson from the NRM party elections slated for Friday," Eng Masiga said in a press briefing. "I have been notified of a new appointment by the President that requires me to serve the party in another capacity."
Eng Masiga described the NRM party as strong, anchored on democratic principles and successes. He advised the new leader to prioritise the party's interests, saying, "Whoever takes up the role should be mindful and put the interests of the party first."
Mr Julius Maganda, a former Member of Parliament for Samia Bugwe and former State Minister for the East African Community, praised Mr Masiga as a dedicated servant of the party who ensured internal cohesion.
"He has been a dedicated servant of the party and fought hard to ensure internal party cohesion," Mr Maganda said.
Ms Rose Wejuli, the district party registrar, noted that Mr Masiga's withdrawal leaves Mr Isaac Muwanguzi as the only candidate for the top seat.
"If we don't get people picking nominations for the position before Friday, Mr Muwanguzi will be declared elected unopposed," she said Thursday evening.
Eng Masiga's leadership has been credited with resolving conflicts within the party, but some critics argue that he lacked mobilisation skills, leading to a decline in grassroots support.
Despite this, Mr Masiga's legacy as a "man of the people" and a good listener has been acknowledged. With Mr. Masiga's withdrawal, the party awaits the outcome of the elections, which could bring fresh energy and new leadership to the district.
