Opinion: NUP’s Confusing Flag Bearers Selections Is An Opportunity For NRM Discipline & Strategy

By Hakim Kyeswa | NRM Cadre, Former CEC Candidate

The recent process of selecting flag bearers by the National Unity Platform (NUP) has been met with more than a few raised eyebrows across the political spectrum. As a committed member of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), I observe these developments not with schadenfreude, but with a sober analysis of what they represent: a critical moment for the NRM to reinforce its strengths and present a compelling case to the electorate.

To the neutral observer, the NUP’s exercise appears less a demonstration of internal democracy and more a potential smokescreen. The questions being asked in political circles are valid: Does this confusion mask a deeply hidden agenda, or is it a symptom of an organization still grappling with the complexities of national political structures? This perceived disarray creates a significant vacuum—one that the NRM is uniquely positioned to fill.

In this environment, our path to victory is clear, but it requires disciplined execution. Our immediate priority must be a threefold strategy focused on consolidation, expansion, and communication.

First, consolidation. The bedrock of our success has always been our robust structures from the village level upwards. Now is the time to strictly mobilize and energize this base. We must ensure that every NRM member is not just a name on a register, but an active, passionate advocate for our party’s proven record of stability and development and socioeconomic transformation. Organizational discipline is our non-negotiable foundation.

Second, expansion. The current political climate presents a unique opportunity to welcome a new wave of supporters. The “hanging votes” of the undecided, and the disgruntled and disillusioned members of the opposition, are looking for a credible and stable political home. We must actively and respectfully engage them, demonstrating how the NRM’s vision aligns with their aspirations for peace and progress.

Third, and crucially, communication. A product, no matter how good, must be effectively marketed. The Party must intentionally empower our cadres, the Publicity Secretaries at all levels. They must be facilitated with a constant, clear stream of information that highlights our achievements and future plans. We must leverage the full power of advertising—from local community radio to national media—to ensure our message is the one that remains in the eyes and ears of every Ugandan. This narrative must be consistent, persuasive, and omnipresent.

While the opposition stumbles in finding its feet, we cannot afford to be complacent. Our victory in the forthcoming elections will be won through our superior organization, our unwavering intentionality, and our direct appeal to every Ugandan who values security and economic growth.

Let us seize this moment with focus and unity. The goal is not just to win an election, but to secure a continued mandate to propel Uganda forward.

Kyeswa Hakim is a long-serving NRM cadre and a former NRM CEC Candidate.