OP-ED: To Hell With Politics Of PokoPoko, Museveni’s Appointments Won’t Be Guided By Propaganda

By Mabusi, PLU Chairperson, Busia District

As Uganda enters another season of political appointments and strategic repositioning, public discourse is increasingly being shaped by media narratives, social media campaigns, and behind-the-scenes political messaging. Across radio talk shows, online platforms, and community conversations, competing narratives are emerging as leaders seek visibility and influence during a politically sensitive period.

In moments like these, perception can sometimes overshadow substance. Political actors often work to strengthen their public image, align themselves with prevailing political currents, and position themselves favorably before appointing authorities.

Political scholar Harold Lasswell once described propaganda as “the management of collective attitudes by the manipulation of significant symbols.” His observation remains relevant today, particularly in environments where communication strategies are heavily used to shape public opinion.

Within Busia’s evolving political landscape, different leaders have adopted different approaches to engagement and mobilization. Some politicians have increasingly embraced media visibility and strategic messaging to redefine their political identities and broaden their appeal. While political reinvention is not unusual in democratic systems, citizens naturally pay attention to consistency, credibility, and long-term commitment to shared causes.

During the early stages of mobilization for the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) and the political activities associated with Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, there were moments when coordination among various actors appeared strained. Differences in approach and strategy occasionally created uncertainty within mobilization structures. However, as the political environment evolved, several leaders adjusted their positions and sought greater alignment with emerging centers of influence.

Political theorist Edward Bernays observed in his work Propaganda that the “conscious and intelligent manipulation of organized habits and opinions” plays a significant role in modern society. This highlights the importance of critical public engagement, especially during politically charged periods.

In contrast, some leaders have focused on emphasizing unity, organizational discipline, and grassroots coordination. In Busia, Ambassador Barbara Nekesa Oundo has increasingly been recognized by supporters for promoting cohesion and structured mobilization efforts in support of President Yoweri Museveni and the ruling National Resistance Movement.

Her supporters argue that her leadership style prioritizes collaboration, trust-building, and consistent grassroots engagement rather than public confrontation. In previous electoral cycles, fragmented mobilization structures sometimes weakened collective political coordination in the district. Advocates of a more unified approach believe stronger organization contributes to greater political stability and effectiveness.

An African proverb reminds us that “when the roots are strong, the tree does not fear the wind.” In many ways, sustainable political leadership depends not only on visibility, but also on consistency, discipline, and the ability to build lasting trust within communities.

At the same time, the current political season has sparked wider conversations about political loyalty, ideological consistency, and authenticity. Rapid shifts in political alignment often generate public debate, with citizens questioning whether certain transformations are driven by conviction or political survival.

As philosopher Hannah Arendt warned, political environments can become challenging when citizens struggle to distinguish between carefully managed narratives and genuine conviction. This places greater responsibility on leaders to communicate honestly and act consistently.

Amid these debates, many long-serving NRM mobilizers and grassroots actors continue to emphasize service, discipline, and institutional loyalty over personality-driven politics. They argue that political competition should strengthen democratic engagement rather than encourage character attacks or destructive propaganda.

Leadership, particularly within a movement built on historical struggle and ideological organization, should remain grounded in integrity, service, and unity. Political ambition is natural, but it should not come at the expense of fairness, consistency, or mutual respect.

As the appointment season continues, leaders across the political spectrum would do well to remember that enduring influence is built not merely through visibility or strategic messaging, but through principled leadership and sustained service to the people.