Why Create ‘Do or Die’ Situations in⁤ NRM Primaries?

By Sam Orikunda, Deputy⁢ RDC, Sheema District

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has long been the bedrock of Uganda’s ⁢political landscape, a movement forged ⁤in the ⁤crucible of struggle and dedicated to national growth. Yet,as the party navigates the complexities of contemporary politics,a troubling⁢ trend ‍has emerged within ⁤its internal electoral processes,especially during primaries. ‍Many perpetrators of divisive tactics are individuals who, as President Museveni aptly put it, are “Abararya ebyezire“-those who reap benefits without contributing to the groundwork. This raises a critical question: why are we creating ‘do or die’ situations in NRM primaries, jeopardizing the very unity and ideological foundation the party was built upon?

The Erosion of Ideological Purity and‍ Brotherhood

A true patriot or NRM leader should never countenance elections where opponents are subjected‍ to ⁣violence or intimidation. The NRM primaries were⁢ intended to⁢ be ‍a ⁣testament to brotherhood and shared ideology, a platform for robust ‍debate and consensus-building, not a battleground for deadly rivalries. To foster this spirit of unity,the NRM introduced joint campaigns during primaries,a commendable initiative designed to prevent⁤ the festering of hatred and promote camaraderie among⁢ party members.

However, the effectiveness of this initiative is being undermined. The refusal ⁣of some candidates to participate in joint campaigns, coupled with the NRM Electoral Commission’s allowance of such refusals through official letters, is sowing seeds of ⁤division. The disheartening exchange of insults among candidates, often met with passive observation by the ⁤Electoral Commission until violence erupts on election day, is⁣ unacceptable. The commission has a constitutional and⁣ procedural mandate to enforce party discipline. It must ⁤actively⁢ disqualify violators of campaign guidelines to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

The Peril ⁣of⁢ Unresolved Post-Primary Divisions

Following ⁢every NRM primary, a familiar pattern emerges: constituencies fracture into two camps – supporters of the incumbent and those who opposed them. While both factions typically rally‍ behind President Museveni and the NRM in general elections, a critical void exists in the party’s efforts to reconcile these divided ⁢groups. This neglect of post-primary mediation and reconciliation ⁣is a meaningful risk to party unity, creating fertile ground for opposition exploitation.

The question of responsibility for mediation and reconciliation within the NRM remains unanswered, and the apparent inactivity of those tasked with this crucial role is alarming.This issue demands urgent attention. Where did we, as a party, deviate from the⁤ path of unity and consensus? How do we return to the principles that guided our founders?

The Rise of ‘Small Gods’‍ and the Undermining of NRM Values

We have inadvertently created “small gods” within ⁤the party – individuals who operate with impunity, flouting rules and ⁢regulations without outcome. Even the President faces⁤ challenges in managing these figures through state agencies like the police.⁣ The absence of robust internal ‍disciplinary mechanisms allows these individuals to thrive. Those at the NRM secretariat who⁤ should be challenging⁤ these “demigods” frequently enough appear hesitant, perhaps due to the influence these figures wield.

These powerful individuals exploit NRM structures, colors, and logos to deceive voters, leveraging the party’s widespread support for personal gain. Many candidates lack a genuine understanding of NRM’s core ideology, instead imposing their own agendas and forcing party officials to ⁢comply. The most vulnerable in this scenario are the young people and powerless party members who bear the⁤ brunt of this manipulation. Who ⁢is safeguarding their votes? Who ensures⁤ fair competition when these “demigods” are involved? How safe are they when they dare ‍to challenge such entrenched‍ power?

Restoring Justice, Fairness, and Transparency

It is imperative that we restore the values of justice, fairness, and transparency that were instrumental⁢ in earning the NRM the⁣ public’s trust and support. By renewing hope and fostering inclusivity, we can significantly strengthen the party ‍and honor the vision of its founders for a prosperous Uganda.The pervasive practice of vote-buying among NRM candidates is a symptom of this⁤ deeper malaise.If a candidate genuinely ‍believes they command majority support, why resort to handouts? ⁤This practice inherently disadvantages candidates lacking financial resources, thereby undermining the very ⁢principle of fair competition. ⁤Vote-buying perpetuates a destructive cycle where elected leaders are primarily‍ focused on recouping‍ their electoral “investment” rather than dedicating themselves to public service.

Prioritizing Service Delivery and Unity

The consequences of this internal disarray are felt directly by the constituents. Neglected services such as ⁤transport, electricity, and healthcare-critical components in⁤ the fight against⁣ poverty-remain unaddressed as some representatives become consumed by politicking and the suppression of opponents, rather than focusing on the needs of the people they represent.

The NRM party leadership must intervene decisively to curb this detrimental behavior. Leadership within the NRM