By BM
National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson Moses Kigongo has issued a strong warning to party members over growing internal divisions, calling for an immediate end to infighting and a renewed focus on discipline as Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections.
Speaking at the launch of President Yoweri Museveni’s 2026–2031 Manifesto at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Monday, Kigongo deviated from prepared remarks to address what he described as a critical threat to the party’s unity and performance.
“This infighting must stop and stop now,” Kigongo declared. “I am appealing to all our members: let us love one another. Let us work together. Let us campaign as one group.”
Kigongo’s comments come amid reports of factionalism and power struggles within the ruling party’s ranks, especially at the grassroots level.
While expressing confidence in NRM’s ability to win the 2026 elections, he warned that lack of discipline could undermine the party’s otherwise strong position.
“If we don’t pull up on discipline, things might be difficult for us,” he cautioned.
The NRM vice chairperson emphasized the importance of using the party’s existing structures to reach voters, rather than relying on what he called “Kampala-based” political operatives.
“People are tired of getting people from Kampala to go to hotels and sit there. We are very firm on the ground, and we must use all the powers we have through our grassroots structures,” he said.
Kigongo praised President Museveni for accepting to run again and for guiding the development of the new five-year manifesto. He also thanked the party’s Secretary-General and the manifesto team for their work, but returned repeatedly to the theme of unity and internal cohesion.
“Let us move as one group,” he urged. “If we do that, there will be no problem whatsoever.”
Although not slated to give a speech at the event, Kigongo said he felt compelled to address the party’s internal challenges ahead of what is expected to be a competitive electoral season.
President Museveni was later invited to officially unveil the 2026–2031 Manifesto, outlining the NRM’s strategic priorities for the next five years.
