The just-concluded youth council elections have sent a clear message to the nation: the National Resistance Movement (NRM) remains the dominant political force in Uganda, especially among the youth.

With an overwhelming 81% victory at the village level, the results have exposed the weakening grip of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and reaffirmed that the so-called “NUP wave” of 2021 will not be repeated in 2026.

Since the last general elections, where NRM’s support in Buganda faced an unexpected challenge, political parties have been strategizing—opposition groups hoping to seize power, and the NRM working to consolidate its gains.

However, the latest youth council elections have revealed a harsh reality for NUP: their influence is fading, even among the very demographic they claim to champion.

NUP’s Failed Youth Appeal

NUP built its brand on the promise of representing the youth, yet in these elections, they failed to secure even 20% of the votes. This is a stunning indictment of their disconnect from young Ugandans. Many youths are now realizing that NUP’s leadership has little to offer beyond rhetoric.

After being used for protests and political agitation, some find themselves abandoned—either politically sidelined or left to languish in prison. Meanwhile, the NRM has focused on delivering tangible programs that empower young people economically.

Government Programs Winning Hearts and Minds

Initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) have been a game-changer, directly addressing poverty and unemployment.

Unlike NUP’s empty promises, these programs provide real opportunities for the youth to improve their livelihoods. It is no surprise, then, that young people are choosing to engage with government initiatives rather than follow opposition leaders who offer nothing but chaos.

NRM Dominance Even in Opposition Strongholds

The most telling sign of NRM’s resurgence is its performance in traditional opposition strongholds. In Kampala, Mukono, and Wakiso—areas once considered NUP bastions—NRM won with nearly 90% of the vote. If the youth at the grassroots, who play a crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes, are overwhelmingly supporting NRM, then the 2026 general elections are already tilting in favor of the ruling party.

The 2021 Wave Will Not Be Repeated

The 2021 election was a wake-up call for NRM, but the party has since recalibrated its strategy, reconnected with the youth, and delivered results. The opposition’s momentum has stalled, and NUP’s failure to make inroads in these youth elections proves that their influence was a temporary protest vote rather than a sustained movement.

As we approach 2026, NRM leaders must capitalize on this momentum. The party should continue engaging the youth, expanding poverty-alleviation programs, and countering opposition propaganda with facts. The message from the villages is clear: Ugandan youth trust the NRM, and that trust will translate into another decisive victory in the next elections.

The writer is the Head of Digital Media, Office of the National Chairman, NRM.
Email: hakimkim255gmail.com
Contact: 0781009000

The post OP-ED: NRM’s 81% Victory in Youth Councils Proves NUP Wave is Over appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Branded as “Freaky Fridays”, the theme nights will now grace every Friday evening from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, bringing together live music lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and weekend travelers to one of Uganda’s most luxurious lakeside destinations.

Set against the scenic backdrop of the lake, the experience blends live band performances with gourmet dining, offering guests a whole barbecue chicken served with roasted potatoes and vegetables at UGX 65,000.

Whether enjoying dinner under the stars or dancing to the rhythm of live instruments, visitors are promised a vibrant and soulful start to the weekend.

The Nyanja/Lake Terrace Restaurant, known for its rich mix of international and local cuisines, continues to serve as a culinary anchor at the expansive Speke Resort complex.

Beyond dining, Speke Resort Munyonyo is a premier hospitality establishment with 477 rooms across nine categories, 19 conference halls, and a wide range of leisure and business amenities.

Guests also have access to five restaurants, two bars, two swimming pools, a fully equipped gym, steam and sauna rooms, a squash court, a business center, and unique recreational activities such as boat rides and horse riding.

With its live entertainment now back in full swing, Speke Resort Munyonyo is positioning itself once again as the go-to destination for relaxation, celebration, and unforgettable Friday evenings.

The post Live Music Returns as Speke Resort Munyonyo Revives ‘Freaky Fridays’ with Culinary Delights by the Lake appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Legal tension continues to mount around Lwengo District Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Mr. Lujumwa Nathan, after the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Masaka issued fresh criminal summons directing him to appear in court on June 26, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. to respond to charges linked to the alleged concealment of a public record, a violation under Section 45(b) of the Access to Information Act, Cap. 95.

The case, now registered as Criminal Case No. MSK-00-CR-CO-0377-2025 was reignited by Volunteer Uganda Extra Limited (VUEL), a civil society organization known for championing transparency, anti-corruption, and the rule of law.

The summons, dated May 27, 2025, follows the organization’s persistence in holding Mr. Lujumwa accountable for what it terms as a “deliberate obstruction of lawful access to public information.”

According to court filings, the charges stem from allegations that Mr. Lujumwa refused to release a document requested under the Access to Information Act, even after all formal requirements, including payment and proper documentation, were fulfilled.

VUEL submitted a bundle of evidence, including a sworn complaint, supporting affidavits, an official letter to the CAO, the original request form, and a UGX 20,000 receipt for document processing.

Courtroom Confusion and Procedural Wrangles

This fresh summons follows a series of courtroom twists that have cast a spotlight on procedural irregularities in the case.

In a previous appearance on May 22, 2025, VUEL’s legal team raised alarm over what it called “serious procedural red flags” when an unfamiliar State Attorney, acting without coordination, appeared in court and sought to reassert control over the matter.

The confusion was further heightened when a Grade One Magistrate, not the Chief Magistrate who had been handling the case since inception, presided over the session.

VUEL’s lawyers argue this substitution was not only irregular but also legally questionable, given the sensitive nature of the private prosecution.

“This case involves criminal charges under a special statute and was initiated through private prosecution. The law is clear, only a Chief Magistrate can handle such a matter,” the legal team stated.

VUEL also expressed concern that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who had previously taken over the matter in April through State Attorney Caroline, was being misrepresented or bypassed in court.

“The case cannot be lawfully taken over twice. It must proceed based on the already established court record,” the complainant warned.

A Pattern of Defiance

This is not the first time Mr. Lujumwa has been summoned.

He failed to appear on April 14, 2025, under Criminal Case No. 271 of 2025, prompting the court to issue a stern warning and a second appearance date of April 22.

That summons ended with the directive: “Herein fail not.” His continued absence has sparked speculation about deliberate evasion and possible attempts to reframe the case as a civil matter, a move the complainant views as a ploy to derail criminal accountability.

“There is an obvious pattern of delay and avoidance, but we remain resolute,” VUEL’s legal representatives stated.

“This is not just about one document, it is about defending Ugandans’ constitutional right to access public information.”

A Precedent in the Making

As legal observers, human rights watchdogs, and civil society groups monitor developments, many view this case as a litmus test for the enforcement of Uganda’s Access to Information Act.

Questions are being raised about judicial independence, the DPP’s internal coordination, and whether public officials can be held accountable through citizen-led prosecutions.

Volunteer Uganda Extra Limited, based in Lwengo with operations in Masaka, has built a strong reputation for grassroots mobilization, anti-corruption advocacy, and human rights work.

The organization was recently recognized by the Lwengo District Local Government, receiving a Certificate of Appreciation signed by District Chairperson Ibrahim Kitatta Almalik and Speaker Hon. Ssenozi Peregrino — a move that adds further legitimacy to its efforts.

Looking Ahead

As June 26 draws near, all eyes will be on Masaka’s Chief Magistrate’s Court.

VUEL insists that further delays must not be tolerated and that the judiciary must assert its authority in the face of what it sees as defiance by a senior public officer.

Should Mr. Lujumwa fail to appear again, he could face additional legal sanctions, including possible arrest.

“If public officials can hide public records with impunity, then transparency dies. This case is not just about Lwengo. It’s about Uganda’s future,” said one of the lawyers.

The post No Escape! Lwengo CAO ‘Lujumwa’ in Hot Water As Court Demands Answers in Public Records Cover-Up appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Ssemuddu, whose campaign is anchored on the slogan “Here to Lead, Inspire & Transform,” has gained significant support from young people across several districts, positioning him as a leading contender in the race for the influential position.

Speaking during a mobilization event, youth leaders cited Ssemuddu’s track record of engagement, strategic vision, and commitment to addressing challenges faced by young Ugandans.

“Ivan understands the real issues that affect us, unemployment, lack of access to opportunities, and the need for mentorship. He’s not just talking, he’s doing,” said Lydia Nansubuga, a youth coordinator from Wakiso District.

With the elections set for later this year, Ssemuddu’s campaign has intensified, focusing on grassroots engagement and policy advocacy within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) structures.

He has pledged to champion youth inclusion in governance, skills development programs, and innovation-led entrepreneurship.

The endorsement adds momentum to what observers describe as a youth-driven movement within the NRM aimed at rejuvenating leadership and aligning party ideals with the aspirations of Uganda’s younger population.

If elected, Ivan Ssemuddu will oversee youth mobilization and policy coordination in the Central Region, a politically significant area for the NRM, which has consistently contributed large numbers to the national vote.

The post Youth Endorse Ivan Ssemuddu for NRM Youth League Central Region Vice Chairperson appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The case, centred on charges of concealment of a public record contrary to Section 45(b) of the Access to Information Act, Cap. 95, has been under public scrutiny since its inception as a private prosecution, initiated by the civil society organisation.

Following the April 24, 2025, ruling, the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Masaka confirmed that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had lawfully taken over the case, not to frustrate it, but to continue its prosecution to a “logical conclusion.”

This news site learnt that the DPP’s initial takeover was facilitated a state attorney identified as Caroline, whose handling of the case was acknowledged by the complainant’s legal team as professional and compliant with due process.

However, according to a statement issued by Volunteer Uganda’s lawyers, the proceedings on May 22 took a concerning turn when a different state attorney, from the office of the Chief Resident State Attorney, appeared in court unannounced and attempted to reassert control over the matter.

Adding to the confusion, the session was presided over by a Grade One Magistrate in the absence of the Chief Magistrate, who had handled the matter since its inception.

“The case had already been taken over by the DPP through State Attorney Caroline. Another Attorney’s abrupt intervention, without engaging the complainant or acknowledging the existing record, raised serious procedural red flags,” the lawyers stated.

According to the legal team, the Grade One Magistrate lacked the authority to record or handle the case due to the nature of the proceedings, which involve private prosecution under the Access to Information Act and require a Chief Magistrate.

“This substitution was both procedurally irregular and legally questionable. The Grade One Magistrate’s role was limited to adjourning the case, not progressing it,” the statement continued.

The complainant’s lawyers further claim that the accused, Mr. Lujumwa, has failed to appear in court for the fourth consecutive time, despite multiple summons. They noted with concern that the court had not yet issued fresh criminal summons ahead of the next scheduled appearance on June 26, 2025.

Of equal concern to the complainants is the suggestion that the accused is attempting to reframe the case as a civil matter, despite formal criminal charges already laid.

“There is a deliberate effort to delay and derail this case, and we must caution against any moves to water down criminal accountability,” the lawyers warned.

Volunteer Uganda’s legal team maintains that the DPP’s power to take over private prosecutions granted under Article 120 of the Constitution must be exercised in good faith and with a commitment to impartial justice.

“The DPP is the custodian of public prosecutions, and must not be seen as a tool to protect public officers from accountability,” they stated, citing concerns about internal miscoordination within the State Attorney’s office. “This case cannot be lawfully taken over more than once. It must continue based on the established court record.”

The court has so far issued three sets of criminal summons for Mr. Lujumwa and complainants insist that the case should proceed without delay, especially given its public interest implications.

Observers note that the case, which involves alleged refusal to disclose public documents related to NGO activities in Lwengo District, is fast becoming a litmus test for the enforcement of Uganda’s Access to Information Act and the integrity of the DPP’s oversight role.

Volunteer Uganda Extra Limited, the civil society organisation behind the case, has a recognised track record of fighting corruption, advocating for human rights, and promoting good governance.

It was recently honoured with a certificate of appreciation by the Lwengo District Local Government, signed by District Chairperson Mr. Ibrahim Kitatta Almalik and Speaker Hon. Ssenozi Peregrino.

As the next court date approaches, the complainants say they remain committed to pursuing justice and hope that the judiciary and the DPP’s office will ensure the case is neither derailed nor diluted.

The post DPP’s Office Under Scrutiny Over Conduct in ‘Errant’ Lwengo CAO Prosecution appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

In a heartfelt interview, the fast-rising singer revealed that for a long time she suffered in silence, hiding the pain inflicted by her former partner.

The abuse, she said, involved both manipulation and repeated beatings, an experience she has carried with her for years.

“At first, I kept it private; I could not speak about what I was going through, but later on, I realised that I was not the only person going through it, and that is why I decided to open up,” Ava Peace shared.

Though she chose not to name her abuser, Ava said her decision to share her experience was driven by a desire to heal and to help others find their voice.

“I hope that he will not do it to someone else,” she added, expressing her hope that speaking out might prompt reflection and change in the individual responsible.

Ava Peace’s courage has sparked conversations around intimate partner violence, particularly among young women in the entertainment industry who often face pressure to maintain silence for the sake of their image or career.

Her message was clear: healing begins with honesty.

“You don’t have to stay in a relationship that breaks you,” she said. “There’s always something better waiting.”

Since leaving her past behind, Ava has found support and encouragement in fellow musician Mudra Viral, real name Alfa Sebunya.

The two have not only built a personal relationship but also a strong professional bond.

Their collaboration on the hit song Shabada became a breakthrough moment for Ava and marked the start of her musical ascent.

Mudra has publicly stood by her side, and many credit their partnership with giving Ava the confidence and space to flourish, both artistically and emotionally.

Now focused on her music and personal growth, Ava Peace says she’s in a better place and hopes her story will empower others to break free from cycles of abuse.

“I found my strength when I stopped hiding,” she said. “Now I want others to know they can too.”

The post Ava Peace Breaks Silence on Past Abusive Relationship appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Kampala: Bobi Wine’s recent letter to the elders of Ankole and Kigezi, dripping with sudden concern about ethnic tensions, would be laughable if it weren’t so dangerous. Here is a man who has built his political career on tribal innuendo and divisive rhetoric now posing as Uganda’s unifying figure. The audacity is staggering.

For years, Bobi Wine has weaponized tribalism when convenient, reducing complex national issues to simplistic “Banyankole versus the rest” narratives. His rallies have featured not-so-subtle ethnic jabs, his social media posts laced with regional dog whistles, and his political strategy reliant on stoking resentment. Yet now, in a breathtaking display of hypocrisy, he writes to Ankole and Kigezi elders warning about sectarianism?

This letter isn’t about national unity—it’s about political survival.

Having alienated large sections of Ugandan society with his tribal rhetoric, Bobi Wine now seeks rehabilitation through performative outreach. His sudden interest in Ankole and Kigezi elders comes only after realizing his divisive tactics have backfired. Where was this statesmanship when he needed Banyankole votes? Where was this unifying message when his supporters chanted tribal slogans?

The letter’s content is equally disingenuous. Bobi Wine accuses Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba of ethnic incitement without providing a single verifiable example. Meanwhile, his own record of tribal statements is well-documented. This isn’t just hypocrisy—it’s political gaslighting on a national scale.

Ugandans should see this letter for what it is: not a genuine appeal for harmony, but a cynical attempt to rebrand a failing political project. True leaders don’t alternate between tribal demagoguery and unity rhetoric based on opinion polls. They don’t attack entire communities then pretend to defend them.

If Bobi Wine truly wants to combat sectarianism, he should start by:

1. Publicly apologizing for his past tribal remarks
2. Disciplining supporters who promote ethnic division
3. Presenting concrete policies rather than ethnic scapegoating

Until then, this letter remains what it is—a desperate politician’s attempt to rewrite his own history while continuing to play the very tribal games he claims to oppose.

Uganda deserves better than leaders who see tribes first and citizens second. We’ve had enough of politicians who treat ethnic identity as a weapon to be drawn or sheathed based on political convenience.

The path to national unity isn’t through performative letters, but through consistent, principled leadership that lifts up all Ugandans—regardless of tribe. On that measure, Bobi Wine’s sudden conversion to national unity rings hollow indeed.

The Author is the head of Digital Media, office of the National Chairman (ONC) and aspiring National Vice Chairman NRM, Central Region.

Email: hakimkim255@gmail.com

Contact: +256781009000 / +256762969420

The post Bobi Wine’s Tribal Hypocrisy: A Failed Attempt to Rewrite History appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Speaking during a live broadcast on NBS Television, Gen Saleh did not mince words, questioning the transparency and accountability of those entrusted with managing the funds.

“The way these funds are being handled lacks transparency and accountability. If the intended beneficiaries are not seeing the money, then we must ask tough questions about where it is going,” he said.

His comments have not only amplified public concern but have also shifted focus onto the individuals directly responsible for the programme’s oversight.

State Minister for Microfinance, Mr Haruna Kasolo, who oversees the implementation of Emyooga, finds himself increasingly under pressure as several sources familiar with the programme’s operations accuse him of presiding over a deeply flawed system, where accountability mechanisms were either ignored or deliberately weakened.

Known for his typically reserved approach, Saleh’s decision to speak out is being interpreted by insiders as a signal of growing internal dissatisfaction within government ranks.

Observers also note that Gen Saleh’s public disapproval marks a significant turning point in the Emyooga debate.

Civil society actors and opposition figures have also weighed in, calling for a comprehensive and independent audit into the programme’s finances.

“We’ve seen glossy brochures and political speeches, but no real outcomes on the ground,” said Mr James Musoke, a financial accountability advocate.

“It is time for government to come clean on how these funds have been used, and who has benefitted,” he added.

Despite billions of shillings being disbursed to Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations across the country, reports from multiple districts paint a troubling picture of systemic abuse.

Investigations have unearthed cases of ghost beneficiaries, idle funds, and irregularities in how resources are allocated and monitored, raising concerns about the competence of those charged with overseeing the initiative.

The post ‘This Is Theft’: Gen. Saleh Tears Into Minister Kasolo’s Handling of Emyooga Cash, Demands Urgent Audit appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Mr. Amanyire Ronald, who serves as a Principal Road Safety Officer and is commonly known as Muzungu Mworo, is said to have lost UGX 40 million in a suspected fraud.

The loss has left him indebted to multiple money lenders, sources familiar with the matter told Daily Monitor on condition of anonymity.

While details of the fraudulent transaction remain unclear, individuals close to the officer say the matter has severely strained his personal finances and may have implications for his role in public service.

The incident has once again brought to the fore concerns about civil servants engaging with unregulated money lenders and the lack of structured financial support systems within government institutions. It also raises broader issues regarding internal controls and the financial exposure of government officials.

Efforts to reach Mr. Amanyire for comment were unsuccessful by press time. MoWT officials have also not issued a formal statement on the matter.

It remains to be seen whether law enforcement agencies will intervene or if the Ministry will undertake any internal inquiries into the incident.

The post MoWT Principal Road Safety Officer Under Fire Over UGX 40 Million Debt Scandal appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The huge number of people participating in the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) structure elections across Buganda is a clear sign that the ruling party is gaining back its support while the opposition struggles with internal fights. Today marks an important shift in Uganda’s politics, setting the stage for the NRM to win big in the 2026 general elections.

The NRM has always stayed strong as a mass party because of its active grassroots elections. The way the party chooses its leaders gives it an advantage over its rivals. Unlike opposition parties, which often have conflicts or handpick candidates, the NRM’s system allows members to elect leaders from the ground up—keeping the party united and strong.

The 2021 Loss and the Comeback Plan

In the 2021 elections, the NRM lost some ground, especially in Buganda and parts of the Eastern region. A major reason was the weak village-level party structures. The NRM’s village system, made up of 30 members per village, is key to its mobilization. With about 72,000 villages in Uganda, fully activating these structures would mean 2,160,000 committed NRM members—already a strong voting base.

To put it simply, President Museveni got 6,042,898 votes in 2021. If each of the 30 NRM members in every village convinces just three more people to vote for the party, that would add 6,480,000 votes—potentially taking the NRM’s total votes past 8.6 million. This is possible if the party fixes internal issues and works well at the grassroots.

Today’s Big Turnout: Proof of NRM’s Support

Anyone watching the news today saw long lines of Ugandans excitedly taking part in the NRM elections. This kind of turnout doesn’t happen by chance—it shows that many people still trust the NRM. While some may argue that a few participants are just looking for opportunities, the large crowds prove that the party still has strong backing. It’s unlikely that more than 8% of those turning up don’t support the NRM.

Also, this time, the NRM Electoral Commission has done a better job. Voting materials arrived on time, rules were followed, and the process has been smooth—reducing the usual fights and disagreements that happen in such exercises. This efficiency makes the party more credible among its members.

Opposition in Chaos: Helping NRM’s Growth

The NRM’s growing strength is also helped by the opposition’s own problems. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) is now divided into two groups, making it weaker. Meanwhile, the National Unity Platform (NUP), which did well in 2021, seems more focused on internal fights—like the Mpuga issue—than on building its support.

Conclusion: NRM’s Clear Path to 2026 Victory

With programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM), stronger party structures, and the opposition’s disunity, the NRM is setting itself up for a major win in 2026. The big turnout in Buganda isn’t just a one-time event—it’s a sign of what’s coming in the next election.

If the NRM keeps this energy, stays united, and takes advantage of the opposition’s weaknesses, the 2026 elections won’t just be a win for the party—they will confirm its lasting power in Ugandan politics.

The future is yellow.

The Author is the head digital media – Office of the National Chairman (ONC) and Aspring Vice Chairman NRM Central region.

The post OP-ED: NRM’s Big Turnout in Buganda Shows Strength as Opposition Weakens appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).