Here’s a bold statement: The National Resistance Movement (NRM) is drawing a line in the sand, and it’s one that could reshape the political landscape in Mukono District. But here’s where it gets controversial—party members who dare to run as independents are being warned of severe consequences, sparking a debate about loyalty, ambition, and the limits of party discipline.
In a recent reconciliation meeting with local leaders, NRM Deputy National Chairman Alhaji Moses Kigongo delivered a no-holds-barred message: the party will not tolerate defiance. “We will not beg anyone who chooses to run as an independent,” Kigongo declared. “If you want to leave, go ahead—the NRM is bigger than any individual.” This isn’t just tough talk; it’s a strategic move to assert authority in a district where tensions have been simmering.
The backdrop? Several NRM members in Mukono rejected the party’s primary results and decided to go rogue, running as independents. Among them are high-profile figures like Peace Kusasira, who challenged the party’s endorsed candidate, Margaret Nakavubu, for the Woman MP seat. Then there’s Andrew Ssenyonga Ruzindana, who ignored instructions to step aside for Daisy Sonko in the Mukono Municipality race. And this is the part most people miss—over 20 other candidates are also running independently for local positions, creating a ripple effect that threatens party unity.
NRM 2nd National Vice-Chairperson for Central Region, Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, didn’t mince words either. He warned party leaders against secretly backing independents, calling such actions a direct attack on the party’s cohesion. He also took aim at youth supporters in Buganda, cautioning them against forming “pressure groups” to extort money from the party or candidates—a practice he described as both unethical and counterproductive.
Dr. Rosemary Seninde, NRM National Mobilizer, added a historical perspective. She reminded leaders of the 2021 elections, where internal divisions cost President Museveni dearly, limiting him to just 20,000 votes in Mukono. Her solution? Strategic mobilization using government initiatives like Emyooga and the Parish Development Model (PDM) to rebuild trust with voters.
Local NRM Chairman Haruna Semakula highlighted the government’s investments in Mukono, including industrial parks in Namanve and Mbalala, as proof of the party’s commitment to the region. His message was clear: these developments should be used to strengthen NRM’s support base, not fracture it.
Kigongo’s closing remarks were a stark reminder of the stakes. “The rules are clear,” he said. “Defy the party, and you’ll face disciplinary action. Don’t expect forgiveness or favors.”
Here’s the controversial question: Is the NRM’s hardline stance a necessary measure to maintain discipline, or does it stifle individual ambition and alienate loyal members? And what does this mean for the future of party politics in Uganda? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—agree or disagree, this is a conversation worth having.
