Unity Is the Pillar of NRM Success as a Party – Richard Todwong

'Honourable Mao did not sign the MoU to join the NRM but to collaborate with us. If there are delays in service delivery, these could stem from broader issues like cash flow or logistical hurdles'
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) party will be a year shy of 40 years in power come January 26. The ruling party that came in following a protracted bush war to topple the governments of the time is facing increased scrutiny over its ability to deliver on its manifesto and a range of other issues.
The party's Secretary General, Mr Richard Todwong, spoke exclusively with the Nile Post over the festive break, sharing insights and vision for the years ahead.
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Excerpts;
A lot of questions have been raised—both online and offline—about your party’s activities, especially during this eventful year. 2024 has seen regional tours, with many pledges from the President to different communities. However, what unfolded in Kisoro raised concerns about disunity among some of your party’s top members. Let’s start with the President’s countrywide tours.
The presidential country tours have been an excellent initiative. In fact, it’s a programme that should have started earlier. However, unforeseen challenges delayed its commencement, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, locust invasions, and flooding in certain areas.
Now, as we near the end of this term, the President found it prudent to engage communities directly. These tours allow the government to account for its work in areas like infrastructure, water, electricity, and social programmes. During these visits, ministers present updates to local leaders, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Have these tours had any impact on you, as the Secretary General of the party?
They do, albeit indirectly. The President acts as a visionary leader, but the implementation of these programmes falls to local leaders and committees. When discrepancies arise, such as reduced funds reaching beneficiaries, it creates an impression that the party is underperforming.
As a party, we emphasize the importance of everyone playing their role effectively. For instance, if an LC5 chairperson and councillors perform their duties diligently, it enhances the execution of government programmes. We continue to guide and inform our members to ensure successful implementation at the grassroots level.
Let’s touch on the Memorandum of Understanding between the NRM and DP President General Nobert Mao. There’s been significant debate about its impact. Recently, we’ve seen emotional outbursts from Mao regarding this MoU. What’s your take on this?
Emotional tones are part of politics. However, the MoU remains a serious agreement. Both parties signed it to improve service delivery, not as individuals but as representatives of institutions. Sometimes, delays in consultations or unforeseen challenges can cause frustration, but these are normal in institutional collaborations.
Is it fair to say the MoU is one-sided? Many expected Mao to deliver on specific promises, yet doubts persist.
Honourable Mao did not sign the MoU to join the NRM but to collaborate with us. If there are delays in service delivery, these could stem from broader issues like cash flow or logistical hurdles. Such challenges do not indicate a lack of commitment. We remain dedicated to fulfilling the terms of the MoU and would gladly renew it if necessary.
Your party has also faced challenges, particularly in recent by-elections like those in Kisoro and Serere, where independents defeated NRM candidates. Concerns have been raised about your Electoral Commission chairman Tanga Odoi. How do you address these issues?
Tanga Odoi’s role is inherently contentious, as he must declare winners and losers. Dissatisfaction is inevitable. However, as a party, we strive to improve our internal processes, including maintaining a clean register. Past challenges, such as disputed registers, led to open primaries that diluted our candidate selection.
If members have specific complaints against Dr Odoi, they should submit them with evidence. General accusations do not help resolve issues.
There’s a broader critique of NRM elections, particularly allegations of bribery and rigging. What’s your perspective on this?
The electoral system itself is strong, but some participants undermine its integrity. For instance, forging qualifications or using money to sway voters damages democracy. These issues affect not only NRM but all parties.
Additionally, some constituencies are highly competitive, and losing candidates often run as independents, weakening our unity. Discipline and adherence to party principles are essential to improve the quality of elections.
Do you think democracy in Uganda is improving?
We are making strides, but we need to strengthen entry-level criteria and encourage discipline among members. For example, we audit MP performance to identify constituencies where improvements are needed. By addressing these gaps, we aim to build a stronger, more democratic system.
As Secretary General, what are your proudest achievements within the party so far?
Unity and administrative streamlining stand out. We’ve fostered greater coordination among senior party leaders, ensuring effective participation in initiatives like digitalisation.
Additionally, we resolved financial and logistical challenges, such as clearing district office arrears and equipping staff. Today, the party operates more effectively, with 90% of administrative hurdles resolved.
Looking ahead to 2025, what are your priorities as the elections approach?
Our focus is on engaging young people. We want them to understand the history and achievements of NRM and Uganda.
Additionally, we are collaborating with government institutions to ensure their performance reflects positively on the party. Balancing politics with governance is critical as we prepare for the elections.