In a statement issued Wednesday, Mr. Kyeswa made a clarion call to party delegates, urging them to rally behind a vision of reform, transparency, and inclusivity. Framing his campaign as a return to the movement’s founding values, he described the current moment as one of “moral reckoning” for the NRM.

“This is not just an election—it is our generational duty,” Mr. Kyeswa wrote. “Every sunrise brings us closer to victory. Every step we take moves us toward reclaiming the NRM we believe in—a party rooted in the people, guided by its cadres, and responsive to the grassroots.”

While he refrained from naming his opponents, Mr. Kyeswa’s message implicitly criticised the current leadership for drifting from the party’s original ethos. He condemned what he termed as “the old ways” that have stifled participation and marginalised loyal members, particularly in the Central Region.

“We will not be defined by the old ways. We will not be silenced by doubt. Together, we will rebuild an NRM that listens, that delivers, and that stands strong—because its foundation is the people,” he added.

The statement has been widely interpreted as a rallying cry for party renewal, particularly among disaffected youth wings, historical cadres, and local council leaders who have long voiced concern about exclusion from the party’s central decision-making structures.

Mr. Kyeswa also addressed growing voter apathy within party ranks, warning that the NRM risks losing its political vitality unless internal democracy is revitalised.

“Your vote is your voice. Your voice is your power. Do not let anyone steal it. Do not let anyone silence it,” he urged delegates.

Observers say the race for NRM Vice Chairperson for Central Region is shaping up to be a litmus test for the party’s internal cohesion and its ability to re-engage with its base ahead of the 2026 general elections. The Central Region, once a bastion of NRM strength, has seen growing electoral pressure in recent years.

Sources within the party say Mr. Kyeswa’s message has begun resonating with influential blocs, including youth mobilisation teams and veteran party members who feel disillusioned by the perceived centralisation of power.

While the race is expected to attract seasoned politicians, Mr. Kyeswa is presenting himself as the face of generational transition, promising a new style of leadership grounded in openness, accessibility, and principled service.

“The time is now. The mission is clear. Let us move forward—united, bold, and unstoppable,” he concluded.

As campaigns heat up, all eyes remain on how candidates will navigate internal tensions and whether Mr. Kyeswa’s message of reform will translate into broad delegate support.

The post Top Story! Youth, Cadres Rally Behind Hakim Kyeswa’s Bid to Rebuild NRM From the Ground Up appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

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

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What was planned as a strategic consultation meeting to cement Kasolo’s support base turned chaotic on Tuesday evening, when delegates turned on the minister, accusing him of opportunism, neglect, and arrogance.

The event, organized under the guidance of PLU’s General Secretary David Kabanda, was meant to position Kasolo as a serious contender for the influential CEC seat. But what unfolded instead was a dramatic rebuke that exposed the growing frustration among NRM grassroots members.

Sources who attended the closed-door session described a tense atmosphere as delegates demanded accountability from the minister over what they termed as years of silence and unfulfilled promises. Many expressed bitterness over what they viewed as a top-down, last-minute campaign that offered no tangible legacy to justify Kasolo’s leadership ambitions.

“He never showed his face here until elections neared. Now he wants our vote. For what?” said a delegate from Bukuya County, who declined to be named for fear of political backlash.

Several attendees reportedly walked out mid-meeting after Kasolo attempted to appease them with a UGX 50,000 transport refund. The gesture was widely seen as dismissive and inadequate, especially given the long distances many had traveled and the time sacrificed to attend the gathering.

“He hands out cars and cash on TV to people we don’t know, but gives us fifty thousand?” one angry delegate asked. “We deserve better.”

Others questioned Kasolo’s leadership record, particularly in light of his role overseeing Emyooga funds. Critics accused him of ignoring rural communities and failing to create visible impact from the initiative in areas like Mubende.

“The funds were supposed to transform our SACCOs. Where is the transformation?” asked another delegate.

The backlash in Mubende is now fueling speculation that Kasolo’s campaign could be unraveling beyond the district. His rivals, including Hakim Kyeswa of the ONC and Kayunga’s Karangwa Moses, are reportedly gaining traction among regional leaders, while the silence of incumbent Godfrey Kiwanda continues to stir uncertainty.

Observers believe the events in Mubende could be a turning point in the internal NRM race, especially as more delegates grow weary of last-minute campaigns and shallow political overtures.

Dr. Winfred Namuli, a political sociologist, noted that grassroots voters are growing more assertive and less tolerant of transactional politics.

“We’re seeing a real shift in political expectations,” she said. “People want leaders who show up, not just for votes, but for service. The era of quick allowances and empty slogans may be coming to an end.”

As the CEC race intensifies, it remains unclear whether Kasolo can recover from the Mubende fallout. While he retains influence in other parts of central Uganda, analysts say he must now work twice as hard to regain trust among core party structures.

His team has yet to issue an official statement addressing the backlash, but insiders suggest a reassessment of his campaign strategy is underway.

In the meantime, NRM’s internal politics continue to heat up, setting the stage for a highly competitive and unpredictable contest as the party prepares for its next delegates’ conference.

The post Minister Kasolo’s CEC Campaign Stumbles as Mubende Delegates Walk Out in Protest appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The prayer session took place at the ONC offices in Kyambogo, drawing attention from both political and religious circles.

Sheikh Kinyenya, a respected voice within Uganda’s Muslim community and a close associate of the NRM’s youth mobilization apparatus, extended his blessings to Ssemuddu in a private but powerful act of spiritual endorsement.

Ssemuddu, dressed in a simple black t-shirt with the initials “TND”, stood humbly beside Sheikh Kinyenya as the prayers were conducted. The two men shared a solemn moment of unity and purpose, hands raised, heads slightly bowed—signifying a blend of faith and leadership aspirations.

In a brief remark following the prayer, Sheikh Kinyenya urged youth leaders to embrace discipline, integrity, and service to community as key pillars of transformational leadership.

“We ask Allah to grant Ivan wisdom and courage as he embarks on this journey. Let his leadership be one of honesty, not just ambition,” the Sheikh said.

Ssemuddu Ivan, a prominent youth figure under the NRM banner, has positioned himself as a candidate “here to lead, inspire and transform.”

With roots in grassroots mobilization and an active presence on digital platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), he is tapping into a younger electorate hungry for change and effective representation.

The youthful aspirant emphasized the importance of unity and values-driven politics in his post-event statement.

“This blessing means a lot. It’s a reminder that leadership is a calling, not a privilege. I am committed to representing the Central Region with integrity and vision,” Ssemuddu stated.

As campaigns gather momentum across the country, endorsements from key religious and political stakeholders such as Sheikh Kinyenya are likely to influence the direction of support, especially among faith-driven youth demographics.

Ssemuddu’s campaign continues under the slogan “Here to lead, Inspire & Transform”, with outreach initiatives expected across districts in the Central Region in the weeks ahead.

The post ‘Divine Endorsement!’- Sheikh Kinyenya’s Powerful Prayer for Ivan Ssemuddu Shakes Up NRM Youth League Race! appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The distribution, which began with mosques around Kampala, aims to support faithfuls during Eid Al-Adha, an Islamic feast symbolizing sacrifice, devotion, and compassion, celebrated through the ritual slaughter of animals and acts of charity.

At Kawempe Mbogo Mosque, the first stop of the distribution campaign, Hajjat Namyalo delivered a cow and food items to the congregation and delivered President Museveni’s special Eid Message to the muslims.

“His Excellency President Yoweri Museveni, Jajja wabazzukulu, has sent his warmest greetings and these Eid gifts so Muslims can celebrate with joy and dignity,” Hajjat Namyalo told cheering worshippers.

She extended the same to Masjid Katangawuzi in Nansana, Masjid Umea in Kikajo, Masjid Lubowa in Namamusba, and Masjid Taqwa in Kisenyi, Kampala Central Division.

Hajjat emphasized that the gesture was not merely ceremonial, but a demonstration of the President’s enduring support for faith-based communities and the government’s commitment to inclusive development.

The ongoing campaign is expected to roll out over the coming days until Eid day, covering more mosques across Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono. Each package includes beef from slaughtered cattle, rice, sugar, cooking oil, and other essential food items.

“This is about standing with our people during sacred moments like Eid,” Namyalo said. “We are not only giving food, but also reminding Ugandans, especially the Muslim youth, that wealth creation, unity, and obedience to divine purpose are core pillars of national transformation.”

The Chief Muzzukulu, as she is fondly known, used the occasion to reiterate President Museveni’s message of economic empowerment through enterprise and discipline, comparing Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah to the citizenry’s expected commitment to the NRM wealth creation agenda.

This year’s Eid Al-Adha food campaign follows a consistent annual tradition from ONC, which has previously distributed thousands of kilograms of beef and foodstuffs to disadvantaged Muslim households nationwide.

The post Jajja W’abazzukulu Delivers Again: SPA Namyalo Kicks Off Distribution of Eid Al-Adha Gifts to Kampala Mosques! appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The 2026 elections present a pivotal moment where young voters will determine who represents their needs and aspirations, regardless of any Political Party affiliations. 

This is where Ampaire Diane Kampe comes into the picture. Born in Apac district-Lango Sub-Region, went to Kanyaryeru primary school (UPE) in Kiruhura district-Ankole Region, before joining Masaka SS (USE) for her O’ level, Hawa SS (Naluvule-Wakiso), and later MUBS for her bachelor’s degree in International Business! She’s currently pursuing a Master’s Degree from Heriot-Watt University, where she’s doing a Project Planning and Management course! 

She has also worked in Buwenge (Busoga Sub-Region) as a social worker.

Therefore, as the Ugandan National Youth Female MP candidate, she embodies a fresh perspective, limitless energy, and an unwavering Patriotic commitment to the youth of this nation.

This is confirmed by her decision to undergo a patriotism training course at NALI in addition to her earlier patriotism clubs’ engagements during her early school days.

The Youngest Leader For The Youngest Generation!

Ampaire is not just another political candidate; she is a symbol of the changing tides in Ugandan politics. At only 27 years old, she understands the struggles, aspirations, and challenges that Ugandan youth face today.

With a personal journey rooted in grassroots activism and community service, Ampaire has made it her mission to ensure that the youth are not merely an afterthought but pivotal stakeholders in the nation’s development.

A Strong Advocate For Youth Empowerment

Ampaire’s platform is built on three key pillars: Empowerment, Engagement, and Elevation. 

On empowerment, she believes that for youth to be successful, they need access to education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities.

By advocating for policies that increase funding for education and vocational training programs, she aims to ensure that every young Ugandan has the tools they need to thrive.

As for engagement, Ampaire understands that youth participation in politics is crucial. She actively encourages young people to voice their opinions and be involved in decision-making processes.

Her initiatives, such as youth forums and mentorship programs, will foster a sense of ownership among the younger generation regarding the future of their communities.

Lastly, elevation! Ampaire wants to elevate the dialogue around youth issues, including mental health, job creation, and environmental conservation.

She sees the potential for Uganda’s youth to be leaders and change-makers, and she is committed to amplifying their voices in Parliament.

A Record Of Results

Ampaire’s previous experience as a community organizer and her involvement in local NGOs provide her with practical insights into the issues facing young Ugandans.

Through her advocacy work, she has successfully lobbied for initiatives focused on mental health awareness, education reform, and youth employment programs. Her tangible results speak volumes about her capability to transform her vision into reality.

A Vision For A Collaborative Future

Ampaire envisions a Uganda where the potential of the youth is harnessed through collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and civil society.

Armed with a strong network, Ampaire’s plan includes partnerships with local businesses to create internships and job opportunities for the youth and ensure that their skills are utilized effectively. She currently runs a Waste Management company where she’s employing several youths and promoting environmental protection.

Her leadership ability has extended from being a head prefect during her lower education levels to becoming the Vice President of MUBS Guild Council.

Conclusion

In a rapidly changing world, having a leader who understands the unique challenges and opportunities of the youth is crucial.

Ampaire Diane Kampe embodies these ideals and is ready to represent a generation that is eager to make a difference. Trust in her vision, and together we can transform the future of Uganda.

The post Meet Ampaire Diane Kampe: The 27-Year-Old Powerhouse Poised to Revolutionize Youth Politics in Uganda! appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The 10-day exercise kicked off on May 16, a day after the closure of the display, and will end on May 26. Mr Julius Muchunguzi, the Electoral Commission (EC) spokesperson, said the 10 days will give people with complaints time to register their issues with the tribunal, which will take them up for further management.

“This exercise of the display of what has come out, the complaints and concerns, and issues that have emerged out of the display of the National Voters Register will now be displayed at each parish or each ward across the country. And the display of these outcomes will be for 10 days,” he said.

He added that the purpose of displaying the concerns, comments, and complaints that have arisen out of the display exercise is to enable the parish tribunals to listen to the complaints from people who have issues with their names, including those who have been removed from the voter register erroneously.

Exercise continues

Mr Muchunguzi, however, said for polling stations that experienced such delays at the beginning, an extension has been given to them to complete the exercise as stipulated in the law.

“The Commission indicated at that time that those 620 polling stations, once they commence their display of the National Voters’ Register, that they too would also have the opportunity to display the voters register at those polling stations for the statutory 21 days that are provided.

And accordingly, the commission would like to inform the public that these 620 polling stations commenced the display exercise on the 30th of April. And accordingly, for these 620 polling stations, the exercise of the display of the National Voters Register continues up to the 26th of May 2025,” he said.

The Commission rolled out the display exercise after the initial update of the National Voters Register, with registration of new voters and those who wanted to change their voting locations.

The post EC starts hearing voter complaints appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The exercise, which commenced on April 25, 2025, ended yesterday, Thursday, May 15, in the majority of the country’s polling stations.

However, the Commission clarified that the process will continue until May 20 in 620 polling stations where the start was delayed due to technical hitches experienced during the production of the registers.

This phase of the electoral roadmap allowed registered voters to verify their particulars and report discrepancies such as the inclusion of deceased persons, minors, individuals registered in the wrong parish, or those appearing more than once on the register.

In addition to this, the EC displayed lists of Ugandan citizens of voting age who were verified by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) but had not yet indicated their polling stations.

This allowed for their assignment to specific polling locations.

Next Step: Display of Recommended Removals and Inclusions

Following the conclusion of the display, the Commission will embark on the next critical phase — the display of lists of persons recommended for deletion or inclusion by the Parish or Ward Tribunal. This will run for ten days, from May 16 to May 26, 2025, at all respective parish and ward headquarters.

“The purpose of this exercise is to enable any person who may have been wrongly recommended for deletion to object to the Parish or Ward Tribunal,” the Commission noted in a statement.

The Tribunals, appointed by area magistrates, consist of two elders (one male and one female) aged 60 and above, and three other members appointed in consultation with political parties and organisations participating in the elections.

These Tribunals are mandated to review objections, consider public input, and make final decisions regarding inclusion, deletion, or correction of entries on the register.

Preparing the Final Register

Upon completion of this process, the Electoral Commission will retrieve all returns from the field and incorporate the approved changes into the final National Voters’ Register, which will be used in the 2025/2026 General Elections.

The EC has reiterated that registered voters can continue to access and confirm their voting details online via the Commission’s official website: https://ec.or.ug/register.

Handling Complaints and Way Forward

All complaints related to the display exercise should be addressed to the Returning Officers in the respective Electoral Districts, in line with Article 61(1)(f) of the Constitution and Section 15 of the Electoral Commission Act (Cap 140).

The EC expressed gratitude to stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, and the media, for mobilising the public to participate in the display exercise. It urged continued engagement in all remaining electoral activities as per the Roadmap for the 2025/2026 General Elections.

The final register is expected to be ready in time for the first cycle of elections — those of the Special Interest Groups (SIGs), namely Youth, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and Older Persons — scheduled for June 2025.

The post EC Concludes Display of National Voters’ Register, Sets Stage for Final Verification Phase appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

In a press statement released Thursday, the EC confirmed that the display exercise, which began on April 25, 2025, has officially ended in the majority of polling stations across the country.

However, for 620 polling stations where the exercise started late due to technical issues during register production, the display will continue until May 20 to complete the mandatory 21-day period.

The Commission had also designated April 25 to May 8 as the display period for Voters’ Registers of Special Interest Groups (SIGs), including the Youth, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and Older Persons, at the village level. That process, too, has concluded.

No Extension of Display Exercise

“There shall be no extension of the Display exercise,” the EC clarified, emphasizing the statutory nature of the display period.

The purpose of the display was to allow voters to verify their details on the register and raise objections regarding inaccuracies or ineligible entries.

Voters were encouraged to report cases involving deceased persons, individuals below 18 years of age, those registered outside their place of origin or residence, and cases of multiple entries.

New Phase: Display of Recommended Deletions and Inclusions

Following the end of the general display, the EC will now embark on the next phase—displaying lists of persons recommended for deletion or inclusion by the Parish or Ward Tribunal. This exercise will run from May 16 to May 26, 2025, at the respective Parish/Ward Headquarters.

“The purpose of this exercise is to enable any person who may have been wrongly recommended for deletion to object to the Parish/Ward Tribunal,” the statement reads.

The Parish/Ward Tribunal, appointed by a local magistrate, is composed of two elders (one male and one female, aged 60 and above) and three members appointed in consultation with political parties active in the area.

Role of the Tribunal

The Tribunal will have the final say on all objections and recommendations made during the display exercise. After this process, the Electoral Commission will consolidate the feedback, make the necessary updates, and produce the final National Voters’ Register.

This register will be used for the first round of the General Elections, starting with the elections of Special Interest Groups’ (SIGs) committees—Youth, PWDs, and Older Persons—in June 2025.

Voter Verification Still Accessible Online

The EC has also reminded the public that voters can continue to verify their registration details via the Commission’s website at https://ec.or.ug/register.

Public Support Appreciated

The Commission appreciated various stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, and local leaders, for mobilising public participation in the display exercise.

“All complaints arising from the Display Exercise shall be addressed to the Returning Officers of the respective Electoral Districts,” the EC stated, adding that these will be handled by Article 61(1)(f) of the Constitution and Section 15 of the Electoral Commission Act, Cap 140.

As Uganda prepares for the 2025/2026 General Elections, the EC continues to call on all stakeholders to remain actively engaged in the electoral process.

The post EC Concludes National Voters Register Display, Moves to Next Phase of Electoral Roadmap appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

This is a key step in preparations for the 2025/2026 General Elections.

The display exercise, which began on April 25, has been running for 21 days at polling stations across the country.

It provided Ugandans an opportunity to verify their voter information, report errors, and flag ineligible or deceased individuals from the register.

Speaking at the launch of the exercise last month, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi stressed the importance of public participation in the process.

“We urge all eligible voters to confirm their details before the display closes,” he said. “This is your opportunity to ensure your right to vote is protected.”

What Voters Were Expected to Do

During the display period, citizens were encouraged to:

• Confirm their names and particulars on the register at their polling stations.
• Report any errors, including misspellings or wrong locations.
• Identify and flag names of deceased persons or those not eligible to vote.
• Highlight duplicate or multiple entries.

The register was available for public inspection daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., including weekends, with Display Officers assigned to assist at each polling station.

The exercise was conducted simultaneously with the Special Interest Groups’ register display, including the Youth, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and Older Persons, which ran from April 25 to May 8.

What Follows After the Display

According to the Electoral Commission, the next phase will involve the display of lists of persons recommended for removal or inclusion on the National Voters’ Register.

This second-level scrutiny will take place from May 16 to May 26, 2025, at parish or ward headquarters across the country.

Citizens who object to any recommended deletions will be allowed to file appeals before Parish or Ward Tribunals.

These tribunals are constituted by the local Magistrate and comprise two elders (one male and one female) aged 60 and above, as well as three members nominated in consultation with political parties active in the area.

“If you notice irregularities, report them. Your vigilance strengthens our democracy,” Justice Byabakama reiterated in his address.

The Commission clarified that no new voter registrations or transfers were permitted during this display period.

Upon conclusion of all verification processes and adjudication by the tribunals, the EC will compile the final National Voters’ Register, which will be used for the first cycle of elections, including the Special Interest Groups (SIGs) elections scheduled for June 2025.

The EC has also reminded voters that they can still confirm their registration details online via the Electoral Commission’s official website: https://ec.or.ug/register.

No Extension

The Commission has emphasized that no extension will be granted for this phase of the display, urging all citizens to take immediate action before the window closes.

The Electoral Commission has lauded all stakeholders, including civil society, religious leaders, political parties, and the media, for mobilizing communities to participate in the display process.

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