Only discipline can win more Ugandans to NRM, says party boss Kigongo
“We have reached where we are, those who don't know, just because of the way we have been working. We respect the Wanaichi very much, because they have really supported us ever since we came into power,” Kigongo said.
(L-R) NRM senior party leaders Godfrey Kiwanda, the Central Executive Committee (CEC) chairperson, Central region, former Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda, Hajji Moses Kigongo, the first National Vice chairperson, Huda Oleru Abason, the state minister for Defence (Veteran Affairs), Richard Todwong, the NRM party Secretary general. On the second right is Dr. Tanga Odoi, the party's electoral commission chairperson and Emmanuel Dombo, the director Information and Publicity, cheering up shortly after the unveiling of the official campaign portrait of President Yoweri Museveni. (Credit: Simon Peter Tumwine)
By Jeff Andrew Lule and Simon Peter Tumwine
Journalists @New Vision
KAMPALA - As Uganda heads toward the 2026 General Elections, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party says discipline among its members as a fundamental pillar for continued success and public trust.
NRM first national vice-chairperson Al-Hajj Moses Kigongo delivered the strong message during the official launch of President Yoweri Museveni’s campaign portrait at the NRM headquarters in Kampala on August 19, 2025.
He reminded party leaders that NRM’s longevity in power has not been by chance, but a result of discipline, unity, and consistent engagement with the people.
However, he expressed concern over a noticeable shift in attitude within the party, warning that a lack of self-discipline could erode the movement’s credibility.
“We have reached where we are, those who don't know, just because of the way we have been working. We respect the Wanaichi very much, because they have really supported us ever since we came into power,” Kigongo said.
He urged members to self-reflect on how they relate with the public and with each other, stressing the importance of humility, accountability, and forgiveness.
Kigongo insisted that discipline must come before campaigning for votes. “Do you have discipline? Do you respect your colleagues? Do you know that we need each other? We must be one and be well-disciplined,” he emphasised.
He also warned against arrogance and the misuse of culture as a divisive tool, calling for respect for each other.
President Yoweri Museveni’s official campaign portrait for the year 2025/2026 at the NRM offices shortly after unveiling it. (Credit: Simon Peter Tumwine)
On the subject of expanding support for the NRM, Kigongo urged members to persuade people to join them with coercion, because it doesn’t help.
He called on leaders to engage sincerely with Ugandans, show what the movement has accomplished, and accept criticism where deserved.
“We can't just ignore people and say we are together. If you ignore people, you are not together with them. That’s why some of you get embarrassed, hoping people will support you, and they don’t. Who are you going to blame?”
NRM secretary general Richard Todwong emphasised that the 2026/31 electoral cycle presents yet another opportunity for the NRM to present its vision to Ugandans.
The party also unveiled its 2026–2031 manifesto under the theme: “Protecting the gains as we make a qualitative leap into a high middle-income status.”
He highlighted key areas where the NRM has made significant progress, particularly in peace and security, infrastructure, education, health, agriculture, and access to clean water. According to Todwong, the upcoming manifesto will reflect achievements across all indicators of socio-economic transformation, which gains he said, must be protected.