After 39 Years, NRM Remembers Its Origin

Only February 6, 1981, a rebel group led by Yoweri Museveni attacked Kabamba Barracks in Mubende to launch a protracted guerilla war that ended in victory five years later
Since the liberation war, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government has hardly recognised Mubende District, the area where the first bullet was fired in 1981 by then National Resistance Army rebels to launch a protracted guerilla war against the government of Apollo Obote.
Some residents of Mubende believe they need a significant memorial because of the district's crucial role, while others argue that the NRM is using this as a strategy to solidify its support in Mubende, especially since other parts of Buganda have distanced themselves from the party.
Mubende is one of the first districts in Uganda, with historical records showing that it was established during the colonial period between 1901 and 1903. This means it has now existed for 122 years.
Currently, Mubende consists of 19 sub-counties, and according to the 2024 population census, it has a population of approximately 520,000 people.
Mubende has a significant military history, hosting several army bases, including CMRC, Ntungamo, and Kabamba.
The NRM party has consistently used Mubende as a stronghold during elections, as it was here, at Kabamba Barracks, that the first bullet was fired in 1981, marking the beginning of the NRA rebellion that brought them to power.
Surprisingly, since 1986, when the NRM took over power, it had never celebrated Independence Day in the region where its liberation war began until 39 years later.
This has sparked mixed reactions among both residents and NRM leaders.
David Kabanda, MP for Kassambya County, says that the people of Mubende have long been neglected.
“Mubende has never hosted a national function. I, along with Honourable Hope Grania Nakazubwe, the Woman MP for Mubende, wrote to the President requesting this day, and fortunately, he accepted.”
Calvin Joseph Kimbuggwe, a resident of Kassambya Sub-county, criticised the regime for neglecting Mubende’s infrastructure.
“Look at the Lusalira-Nkonge-Ssembabule road. It is too dusty, yet it leads to Kabamba Barracks. They have repeatedly talked about fixing it, but nothing has been done.”
Vincent Kisanja Tumusiime, NRM Chairperson for Kassambya Constituency, criticized the NRM party for failing its loyal supporters over the years.
“We all know that Mubende is the only district in the Buganda region with significant NRM support. It is unfortunate that they have only started making efforts to come back after 39 years.”
“President Museveni received great support from Mubende when he was in the bush, and the first bullet was fired here. He should come back and repay that favor,” Kisanja added.
Some critics argue that the celebrations add no value to Mubende, while others believe the district's role in firing the first bullet should be commemorated with meaningful action.
“If the president can launch the construction of the Lusalira-Nkonge-Ssembabule road, we would truly benefit from the liberation. We need something substantial as a remembrance for Mubende,” says Godfrey Tushabe.
Although Mubende played a key role during the NRA’s rise to power, some residents feel that little has been done to honor its contribution. They demand the government establish a permanent memorial in Mubende.
“If we can be given a district, such as Kassambya where Kabamba Barracks is situated, it would be better. Let the NRM government plan something significant for us,” residents said.
Political analyst Edward Kiddu argues that the NRM ignored Mubende for a long time because it believed its support there was secure.
“There was no need to come to Mubende because they believed everything was fine. However, based on the 2021 NRM performance in Buganda, they had to wake up and reclaim their territories,” says Kiddu.
Kiddu agrees with some Mubende residents who feel they have not benefited much from NRM’s 39 years in power. He cites several examples to support his argument.
When asked whether Mubende is likely to gain from this event, Kiddu dismissed it as insignificant, adding that only those with misplaced hope still believe in change.
“That day (January 26) will end like any other day. What I can advise our people is to go and welcome the president,” Kiddu added.