KALANGALA.
The ruling National Resident Movement (NRM) chairperson for Kayunga District ,Mr Moses Kaliisa karangwa, has urged party supporters in the island district of Kalangala and the wider Buganda region to elect leaders that are not thirsty for positions.
While launching a mobilization drive in Kalangala on Tuesday at dream Land Guest House, Karangwa ,who is eying the NRM vice chairperson for Buganda Region slot , emphasized the need for NRM members to choose leaders who are available, accessible, and dedicated to party work .
“To bring back NRM in Buganda, we need people who will dedicate time to party activities, not those who hold many positions and end up neglecting their duties,” he said
The position of NRM vice chairperson for Buganda Region is currently occupied by Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi ,but State Minister for Micro Finance Haruna Kasolo is also vying for the same position .
Karangwa further criticized the current state of affairs in NRM , pointing out that some individuals elected to the party Central Executive Committee (CEC) have failed to convene meetings or offer strategic direction for the party.
“Ever since people were elected to the CEC, we’ve not had any meaningful meetings to discuss the party’s activities and way forward. We need leaders who are present and committed at the grassroots.” he added.
Karangwa further noted that the overlap between government roles and party responsibilities had created loopholes in party mobilization structures , allowing the Opposition parties to gain ground in Buganda where NRM used to enjoy much support in the past 35 years .
“There are many promises that were made to NRM leaders at all levels, but some have not been fulfilled—and no one in the CEC is following up. Trust me, I will be your servant and ensure those promises are pursued,” he vowed.
Mr Rogers Buregyeya, the NRM chairperson for Masaka District, echoed Karangwa’s sentiments, decrying the marginalization of loyal party mobilizers at the grassroots.
“We are tired of sitting in NRM meetings where the same people are ministers, district chairpersons, and even supply water and food at the event. How can ordinary party members grow if a few dominate everything?” he asked.
Buregyeya urged party members in Greater Masaka region to support a leadership shift that empowers all members.
Mr Moses Tumwekwase, NRM chairperson for Mitooma District, emphasized the importance of having leaders who are approachable.
“We need leaders who don’t require bureaucratic processes to access them. You shouldn’t have to write letters or wait weeks for a response when you need help,” he said.
He stressed that the NRM needs visibility and active voices on the ground to maintain its support base.
Local residents and party officials in Kalangala also expressed their frustration at being sidelined from key decision-making processes.
Mr Dan Muwenda, the Kalangala NRM district youth chairperson, said youth are often left without guidance and support.
“During nomination periods, we need leaders who are present to guide us. How will the party win if there’s no support from the top down?” he asked.
Noeline Nalugo, the Kalangala district NRM women chairperson, said many capable women are sidelined in party leadership .
“We wouldn’t have known Karangwa if he hadn’t come out to show his abilities. The same goes for many NRM members who are sidelined by those clinging to positions,” she said.
As the NRM prepares for election of CEC members , several party figures, including Karangwa, are traversing districts seeking support for their bid to join the Central Executive Committee. The call for change within the party is also growing louder, particularly in Buganda—a region where NRM’s support has significantly waned in the past five years.