Joseph Ssewava Mukasa Argues Mathias Mpuuga To Join Them

The National Youth Coordinator of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Joseph Ssewava Mukasa, has issued a cautious yet welcoming call to Mathias Mpuuga, the former Leader of the Opposition, urging him to consider registering and affiliating with the party.

Mukasa conveyed this message during the commencement of the party’s extensive membership renewal and registration campaign across the nation.

Addressing the media, Mukasa not only encouraged Mpuuga but also extended an invitation to other opposition members to actively engage in the registration drive, strategically aimed at bolstering the party’s ranks in anticipation of the 2026 general elections.

The initiation of the update to the party register, colloquially referred to as the “yellow book,” signifies the inaugural phase in the party’s meticulous internal and electoral arrangements.

Highlighting the significance of discerning Mpuuga’s intentions should he opt to align with the NRM, Mukasa emphasized the necessity for prudence in such a decision-making process.

Furthermore, Mukasa underlined the NRM’s receptiveness to new members, extending assurance that Mpuuga and others disillusioned with their current political affiliations would be welcomed into the fold.

Should Mpuuga express a willingness to join, Mukasa outlined the procedural course of action, including a formal meeting and an oath-taking ceremony. However, he cautioned against expecting immediate elevation to prominent party positions, citing the precedence of gradual integration observed within the NRM.

Mukasa elucidated on the rigorous induction process for new members, encompassing an immersion into the party’s ideology, underscoring the NRM’s steadfast commitment to its foundational principles and ethos.

In terms of vigilance over Mpuuga’s motives for aligning with the party, Mukasa disclosed a monitoring period spanning approximately five years, aimed at identifying and rectifying any undesirable traits or behaviors.

“We will evaluate your alignment with the party’s ethos over the span of five years, ensuring the preservation of our high standards,” Mukasa affirmed, signaling the party’s unwavering dedication to maintaining integrity among its membership ranks.

Meanwhile, Joel Ssenyonyi, spokesperson for the National Unity Platform (NUP), disclosed the impending deliberation over Mathias Mpuuga’s status as the embattled Parliamentary Commissioner during the party’s forthcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) session.

Ssenyonyi’s announcement ensued after Mpuuga failed to furnish a satisfactory response to the party’s inquiry regarding the contentious “good service award” of Shs500 million conferred upon him by Parliament.

The ultimatum issued by the NUP, demanding Mpuuga’s explanation, lapsed earlier this week, precipitating the convening of the NEC session chaired by the party’s president, Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine.

Despite his absence from the session, Mpuuga was granted a seven-day extension to address the concerns raised by the party.

Since then, Mpuuga has maintained silence, diverging from his initial robust rebuttal of the party’s allegations of impropriety associated with the award.

In response to the accusations of corruption and abuse of office, Mpuuga adamantly refused to resign from his position as parliamentary commissioner, refuting the party’s assertions as based on falsehoods and misconstrued facts.

According to Mpuuga, the funds he received were lawfully allocated to him by a parliamentary commission in his capacity as the Leader of the Opposition, following due parliamentary procedures.

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) is a political organization that has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Uganda since its inception. Here’s an in-depth history of the NRM:

Formation and Ideological Foundations (1980s)

• The NRM was founded in 1981 as a rebel group led by Yoweri Museveni, who aimed to overthrow the government of Milton Obote.
• The movement’s ideology, commonly referred to as “NRMism,” is based on a combination of nationalism, pan-Africanism, democracy, and social justice.
• During the guerrilla war, the NRM gained support from various segments of Ugandan society, including peasants, intellectuals, and military defectors.

Victory and Establishment of Power (1986)

• In 1986, after a protracted armed struggle, the NRM successfully seized power, leading to Museveni becoming the President of Uganda.
• The NRM introduced a series of reforms aimed at rebuilding the country, including economic liberalization, decentralization, and the promotion of human rights.

Constitutional Reforms and Multi-Party System (1990s)

• In the early 1990s, the NRM initiated constitutional reforms, leading to the adoption of a new constitution in 1995.
• The new constitution provided for a multi-party political system, ending the NRM’s status as the sole political party in Uganda.
• Despite the introduction of multi-party politics, the NRM remained dominant, winning subsequent elections and maintaining control over the government.

Challenges and Internal Struggles (2000s)

• Throughout the 2000s, the NRM faced criticism over issues such as corruption, human rights abuses, and political repression.
• Internal divisions within the party emerged, particularly regarding succession and the consolidation of power around Museveni’s leadership.
• Opposition parties accused the NRM of electoral fraud and manipulation, leading to tensions and periodic outbreaks of violence.

Consolidation of Power and Electoral Victories (2010s)

• Despite growing discontent and opposition, the NRM continued to win consecutive elections, maintaining its grip on power.
• Museveni’s leadership style, characterized by a mix of authoritarianism and populism, contributed to the party’s electoral success.
• The NRM implemented various development projects and social programs aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education, garnering support from segments of the population.

Recent Developments (2020s)

• In the 2021 general elections, Museveni secured another term in office amid allegations of electoral irregularities and opposition crackdowns.
• The NRM government continues to face challenges related to governance, including concerns over democratic backsliding, human rights violations, and economic inequality.
• As Uganda grapples with emerging issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and regional instability, the NRM remains central to the country’s political discourse and future trajectory.

Throughout its history, the NRM has evolved from a rebel movement to a dominant political force in Uganda. While the party has achieved significant milestones in nation-building and development, it also faces persistent challenges related to governance, accountability, and democratic governance.