By Aggrey Baba
The NRM electoral process is under scrutiny after revelations that certain candidates, have been accorded special privileges during campaign activities.
While the commission has allowed some top leaders like Vice President Jessica Alupo and Deputy Prime Minister Nabbanja to campaign exclusively due to their official duties, concerns are growing among ordinary candidates who feel sidelined in the race for party tickets.
NRM Electoral Commission chairperson, who spoke yesterday, acknowledged that campaigns are a critical part of the democratic process. However, the exemption given to a few has raised eyebrows among aspiring Members of Parliament and party activists across the country.
“Candidates who want to create chaos during campaigns will face party sanctions,” the commission warned, emphasizing the need for discipline. Yet, the controversy lingers around the unequal opportunities, especially for candidates at sub-county and district levels who must engage in active campaigning without the same allowances.
In a recent nomination event, over 250 filed their papers for various party positions, ranging from national vice-chairpersons to special league chairs, signaling keen competition within the ruling party.
Some nominees, like Jane Alisemera Babiiha, expressed optimism that the party machinery will ensure a level playing field. But others, including regional aspirants, voiced frustration over what they describe as “special treatment” of senior leaders.
Kwame Rugunda, a candidate for the entrepreneurs’ league, highlighted the challenges entrepreneurs face, including excessive taxes and regulatory hurdles, promising to champion these issues if elected. “We need more youth and women in leadership, but fairness must be guaranteed,” he noted.
As the NRM gears up for the Primaries, the spotlight is now on how the party will manage the delicate balance between respecting official obligations of top leaders and safeguarding equal campaign rights for all candidates.
However, observers warn that perceived favoritism could sow discord within the party ranks, potentially weakening its unity ahead of the general elections.
