Retired Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde, a former intelligence chief and 2021 Presidential candidate, has picked nomination forms to contest for the Rukungiri Municipality parliamentary seat, marking a surprising political pivot that has reignited debate about his long-term ambitions.
The former spymaster, who once positioned himself as a national reformist and challenger to President Yoweri Museveni’s decades-long rule, now says “changing times call for different approaches.”
“This is not about stepping down. It is about adapting to the moment,” Tumukunde told journalists today at NRM head offices. “Sometimes national change begins with local presence. That is why I am returning to Parliament.”
Tumukunde’s announcement has stirred political waters in the opposition-leaning Rukungiri District, known for producing high-profile politicians such as Dr. Kizza Besigye. His return to the local political scene is viewed by many analysts as a tactical recalibration rather than a retreat.
In 2020, Tumukunde emerged as one of the prominent figures seeking to unseat President Museveni, running a spirited campaign under the “Renewed Uganda” platform.
His campaign focused on security sector reform, economic revitalization, and the return to constitutionalism.
While he did not make a strong showing in the final tally, his candidacy was notable for its boldness and insider critique of the regime he once served.
Now, with 2026 drawing closer, his decision to contest for a parliamentary seat may be a sign of shifting political winds — or a strategic effort to regain political relevance from the grassroots.
Political observers believe Tumukunde’s move could be influenced by several factors: Uganda’s rigid political terrain, limited space for independents at the national level, and the slow momentum of building a new political movement without institutional support.
Rukungiri is no ordinary district. It has long been an opposition stronghold and remains a symbolic base of resistance to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
His bid for Rukungiri Municipality MP on NRM ticket will likely attract fierce competition, especially from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).
“I am not afraid of competing with anyone. Let the people of Rukungiri decide,” Tumukunde said confidently, when asked about potential rivals.
If successful, Tumukunde would be returning to a House he once served in — this time not as an army representative, but as an elected civilian leader.
