By Mulengera Reporters
For many followers of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), the release of its top leadership list was expected to be routine. Instead, it turned into an emotional moment particularly with the inclusion of the late Cedric Babu among the organisation’s most senior figures.
In a statement issued by PLU Chairman Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba on March 20, 2026, the organisation assigned “Patriotic Officer” (PO) numbers to members of its Central Committee, highlighting their role in shaping the movement. At the top sits the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi, as PO 001, followed by veteran journalist Andrew Mwenda at PO 002, and Muhoozi’s paternal uncle, Michael Nuwagira Kaguta (Toyota), at PO 003.
Others include Gen. Muhoozi’s brother-in-law Edwin Karugire at PO 004—husband to Natasha Karugire, the First Son’s sister and daughter of President Yoweri Museveni. Kasambya County Member of Parliament and recently named spokesperson of the Bachwezi dynasty, Hon. Daudi Kabanda, is at PO 005, followed by Youth and Children Affairs’ Minister Balaam Barugahare at PO 006 and Igara East MP Bushenyi district Michael Mawanda at PO 007. Kitgum District Woman MP and State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, Relief and Refugees Lillian Aber holds PO 008, while the late Cedric Babu—son of veteran politician Captain Edward Francis Babu—is ranked PO 009. Political analyst and Chairman of the Council for Abavandimwe Frank Gashumba appears at PO 010, Tooro Kingdom’s Deputy Prime Minister (Omuhikirwa) Henry Mutegeki Basaliza at PO 011, and Tingey County MP in Kapchorwa District Fadil Twala at PO 012.
Beyond the numbering, it is Cedric Babu’s placement ahead of living members that has stirred reflection and conversation. For many supporters, it feels like a heartfelt recognition of a man they say brought energy and visibility to the movement in its early days. Social media quickly filled with tributes, recalling his charisma, media presence, and passion for youth mobilisation.
At the same time, the list quietly tells another story. Among the 12 names, only one woman—Lillian Aber—and one Muslim—Fadil Twala—are included. For some followers, this stands out not as criticism, but as a reminder of how much broader the movement still hopes to grow.
Gashumba’s position at PO 010 has also drawn curiosity. Known for his outspoken style, his placement just below the late Babu has sparked conversation among supporters, largely in a tone of intrigue rather than confrontation.
Within PLU circles, however, the mood remains largely celebratory. Members have congratulated one another, widely shared the list, and expressed anticipation for when ordinary members will also receive their numbers.
PLU, which rebranded from the MK Movement in 2024, continues to present itself as a platform for patriotism and unity. Yet in this moment, it is not politics that dominates the conversation—but memory, identity, and the quiet weight of a name that still resonates, even in absence. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
