The Kololo Independence Grounds are today an epicenter of political activity as thousands of delegates converge for the long-awaited NRM National Delegates Conference, a landmark event set to conclude elections of the ruling party’s governing organs and chart the direction for the next political season.
With accreditation completed and the grounds filled to capacity, anticipation is high for the day’s program. Delegates will not only participate in key elections but also hear from the NRM National Chairman, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is expected to open the conference shortly.
In his earlier speeches, Museveni has indicated that he will outline Uganda’s future economic and political trajectory.
Today he is expected to deliver a major policy speech highlighting Uganda’s economic journey, from an economy worth just $3.9 billion in 1986 to $66 billion today. Mr Museveni’s will speak into plans to set the roadmap toward a projected $500 billion high middle-income economy.
The NRM Chairman, while addressing the National Executive Council and the conference of Special Organs, emphasized critical governance issues such as fighting corruption at local government level, improving service delivery, and ensuring that roads, schools, hospitals, and water projects serve citizens effectively. In his last address to Special Interest Group delegates earlier this week, he warned against bribery in recruitment processes, theft of medicines from health facilities, and illegal charges in government schools. Delegates now expect him to reinforce these themes with a sharper focus on accountability as a means of “protecting the gains.”
Another key highlight of the conference will be the conclusion of elections for the leadership of the party’s Special Organs. The categories include the Women’s League, Youth League, and Entrepreneurs League, among others.
The contest generating the most attention is the race for First National Vice Chairperson (Female), where Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga and Rt. Hon. Anita Among are facing off. Both leaders command strong support bases, and the outcome of the vote is widely anticipated.
Delegates will also witness the announcement of newly elected party structures, which will play a central role in shaping the NRM’s programs over the next five years. These leaders are expected to strengthen grassroots mobilization, build party cohesion, and ensure delivery on the NRM’s electoral promises.
In addition, NRM Secretary General Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong will present a comprehensive report to the delegates, detailing progress made so far, challenges encountered, and the party’s vision going forward. Todwong has consistently called for unity and urged members to put the mission and objectives of the NRM above personal ambition.
This year’s conference is held under the slogan “Protecting the Gains: As We Make a Leap into High Middle-Income Status.” The message resonates strongly with delegates and citizens alike, reflecting pride in Uganda’s achievements in peace, security, and economic progress, while underscoring the need to safeguard these accomplishments as the country transitions to the next level of development.
With thousands of delegates representing every corner of Uganda, from accreditation through to today’s proceedings, NRM director for Communication and Public Relations says the massive turnout has been described as a strong testament to the NRM’s grassroots support and the confidence members have in the party’s electoral program.