He was appointed NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson by President Museveni in 2015 and has since played a central role in organizing key party events, including the 2021 elections.
Tanga Odoi has been reappointed as Chairman of the Electoral Commission for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), despite growing concerns over his leadership and allegations of incompetence in managing electoral processes.
His reappointment follows widespread criticism, particularly after the NRM’s defeat in the Kisoro Woman MP by-election, a loss many attribute to Odoi’s leadership.
Kisanja or dry banana leaves is the local euphemism for third term that was coined when President Museveni was drumming up support for 2006 presidential election.
Odoi, an accomplished academician who taught history at Makerere University and politician, has vast experience in both education and politics.
He was appointed NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson by President Museveni in 2015 and has since played a central role in organizing key party events, including the 2021 elections.
However, his leadership has not been without controversy. Many critics point to the party’s poor performance in the 2021 Kisoro Woman MP by-election as evidence of his struggles in managing the electoral processes, raising doubts about his ability to steer the NRM to success in future elections.
Despite these setbacks, Odoi’s third-term reappointment signals continued confidence in his role within the party.
As he prepares for the upcoming NRM primaries, party members and stakeholders are watching closely.
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The upcoming primaries, as well as the party’s overall performance in the 2026 general elections, will likely depend on his ability to address internal conflicts and strengthen the party’s electoral machinery.
With Odoi at the helm, the success of the 2026 elections may be influenced by his ability to adapt to evolving political dynamics within the party, navigate criticism, and ensure smooth and fair primaries.
The stakes are high, as the party’s future leadership and its performance in national elections will largely depend on his leadership and the party’s collective ability to resolve the challenges that have hindered its success in recent elections.