NRM Primaries: A testament to homegrown democracy and ideological strength

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OPINION

By Akim Twinamatsiko

The recently concluded NRM party primaries demonstrated the strength of Uganda’s ruling party, not just in terms of numbers or organisation, but in its deep ideological foundation and commitment to homegrown democratic solutions.

Central to these elections was the lining-up method, a system some see as outdated, yet it remains uniquely Ugandan. Instead of importing complex systems, the NRM uses this transparent grassroots approach, which makes the process visible, accountable, and reduces disputes over votes.

There are, however, gaps that need addressing. These include clearer barriers to stop non-registered voters from accessing voting areas, improved voter identification, a simple public address system, and better training for NRM village registrars. Despite these challenges, the system has the potential to grow into a strong, people-owned electoral model.

One important trend in these primaries was that voters are no longer primarily influenced by money. While commercialisation still played a role, established politicians lost to new candidates who earned trust through genuine engagement. In some areas, voters even contributed money to support candidates they believed in. This shows that Uganda’s young democracy is maturing and becoming more issue-based.

However, there were reports that some women were forced to vote for their husbands’ choice due to lack of privacy in the lining-up method — a worrying trend that can lead to domestic violence. It is also important to note that some of the problems stem from the degenerating morals of our society.

The NRM’s governance structures remain unmatched in Uganda. From village committees to district leagues, the party is deeply connected to citizens’ daily lives. These structures extend beyond elections to include mobilisation, service delivery, and civic engagement. Using these channels, the party organised peaceful primaries in over 72,000 polling stations.

When the NRM, led by Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, took power in 1986, Uganda was unstable and ungovernable. Since then, the country has moved from instability to stability, and from despair to hope. Under Museveni’s leadership, Uganda has undergone recovery and now focuses on sustainable socio-economic transformation, with programs like PDM and Emyooga.

Uganda is gaining momentum towards middle-income status, thanks to economic patriotism, education, local production, and strong security efforts. Supporting the NRM government is now a patriotic responsibility, as the party continues to lead the country towards a better future.

In conclusion, the NRM primaries were not just about choosing flag bearers, but about reaffirming the party’s ideology, homegrown democracy, and belief in Uganda’s ability to solve its own problems. As national elections approach, Ugandans are encouraged to support the NRM — the party that turned chaos into order and division into unity.

“Our democracy may not be perfect, but it is ours, and it is working.”

The writer is Assistant Resident City Commissioner

MBARARA CITY: SOUTH DIVISION