NRM has had ‘foot soldiers’ for over 30 years

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OPINION

By Caroline Kiwala                                           

My brothers and sisters in the opposition, especially those under the National Unity Platform (NUP), often speak passionately about “foot soldiers”, the people at the grassroots who drive political movements, spread the message, and defend party interests. While you celebrate this concept as though it’s a recent invention, allow me to break the news: the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has had strong, organised, and consistent foot soldiers for over 30 years.

From the very beginning, the NRM understood that sustainable political power does not come from empty rhetoric or crowd excitement. It is built on deep grassroots organisation, active structures, and community presence. That is why our party established comprehensive frameworks across the country from the village level, with NRM Chairpersons and their executive committees, to the parish, sub-county, district, and regional levels, all the way to the National Executive Council (NEC) and Central Executive Committee (CEC).

These are not just titles or ceremonial posts. They are functional institutions, each level actively coordinating, mobilising, and transforming communities. Can the opposition honestly compare? Are there any stronger, wider-reaching structures and more loyal foot soldiers than those within the NRM?

And then came one of the most impactful decisions by our government: The Parish Development Model (PDM). This bold initiative has not only improved service delivery and boosted household incomes, but it has also multiplied NRM’s foot soldiers. By empowering communities directly, the PDM has reignited the spirit of patriotism and volunteerism at the grassroots. It has extended the reach of government and with it, the presence and popularity of the NRM.

Let’s be honest, what does the opposition offer in contrast? Hate politics. Propaganda. Tribal and emotional narratives. These may bring applause at rallies or likes on social media, but they cannot replace tested party structures or actual service delivery. You may be masters of misinformation, but without a countrywide party infrastructure, you are simply a loud voice with no legs to walk the talk.

As we approach 2026, I want to deliver a clear and candid message: the NRM is now more popular, more renewed, and more organised than ever. The political wave that swept in many inexperienced opposition MPs in 2021 is now crashing. The electorate has seen the reality or the lack of it. Communities are now chasing non-performing MPs from burials and public functions. The voters have opened their eyes. They no longer want slogans, they want substance.

In 2021, lions were replaced by sheep. But the lions never disappeared. They watched. They waited. And now, they are roaring back. 2026 is not just an election, it is a referendum on performance, accountability, and quality leadership.

I'm here to assure you, the NRM is on track for a resounding victory of over 80%. This is not speculation, it is a reflection of what is happening on the ground. As a trained mobilizer and patriot, I see the momentum building across Uganda. The NRM wave has started. And to my colleagues in the opposition: prepare yourselves. This political shock may come with side effects high blood pressure, heart palpitations, and a dose of hard truth.

But let us also remember: this is a friendly match. Let’s meet in the 2026 arena with our manifestos, our candidates, our track records, and our connection to the people.

Even in schools, those that consistently excel in national exams do so because they retain experienced teachers. The same applies in leadership.  That is why my candidate, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, remains unmatched. With over 50 years of leadership experience, from his youth to today, he continues to pass Uganda’s national exams with distinction. He knows the syllabus. He knows the students. And most importantly, he delivers results.

In conclusion, to our friends in the opposition: this is your early reminder. The NRM is not just strong, it is stronger than ever. Quality is coming. The grassroots are awake. The lions are back.

Let’s meet again at the ballot.

The writer is the Assistant Resident District Commissioner Butebo District