In a bold step that has stirred Uganda’s politics, Hon. Michael Maranga Mawanda, the PLU Director of Mobilization, has officially declared his interest in the National Vice Chairperson, Western Region seat within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party Central Executive Committee (CEC). Speaking to the PLU headquarters in Naguru, Mawanda emphasized his commitment to quality representation and solidifying NRM leadership in Western Uganda, setting the stage for a thrilling race ahead of the party’s internal elections. Mawanda’s announcement comes at a timely moment for the NRM as the party prepares for another election season.

Reflecting on what the party had achieved over time, he encouraged members to reflect on the obstacles and lessons for continued growth and unity. “We have done a lot as a party, but we should also see areas where we need to improve. My focus is to strengthen NRM’s dominance in Western Uganda and ensure our members are given a voice,” Mawanda stated. His decision to contend for the position of CEC follows guidance from PLU Chairman, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who summoned members to participate fully in NRM internal elections via the party’s official avenues. Mawanda clarified that although PLU is a civic body and not a political party, it shares common values with the NRM, and it is only understandable that its members participate in activities of the ruling party.

“Gen. Muhoozi called on us to vote in NRM elections. There is no contradiction in belonging to PLU and seeking leadership in the ruling party,” he explained. Mawanda introduces a fresh face to the NRM CEC Western Uganda seat, currently held by Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of ICT and National Guidance. He will also have to match wits with Workers’ MP Arinaitwe Rwakajara, who had previously expressed interest in the seat. The battle is expected to be fierce, with all the contestants having their own strength and vision for the future of the party. Despite being under a pending court case, Mawanda remains undeterred in his campaign.

He denounced the charges laid against him as politically motivated and believed in the justice system. “We are resolute. This is in the courts, and we are innocent,” he said. His determination not to be swayed from his campaign demonstrates his fortitude and commitment to serving the party and the people of Western Uganda. Mawanda’s candidacy has already made huge ground in the NRM, particularly in Western Uganda, where party unity and mobilization at the grassroots level are high agendas. His campaign will energize the party base, bringing new dynamism on focusing on members’ needs at every level. By emphasizing proper representation and leadership inclusivity, Mawanda hopes to bridge gaps within the party and ensure that the NRM is a cohesive and united force as it heads into the next election cycle.

The Western Region is a stronghold of the NRM, and the quest for the CEC seat is seen as an opportunity to breathe new life into the party’s presence and influence in the region. Mawanda’s long history in the region and his track record as a mobilizer render him well suited for the job. His election campaign will inevitably focus on matters like grass-roots involvement, youth development, and economic progress, which are the central theme of NRM policy. Now that the election year is coming around, Mawanda’s candidature will fire up heated debate and discussion in the NRM. His platform for the party’s future as well as his commitment to listening to members’ issues has already resonated deeply with many people.

Through embracing unity and bringing people together, Mawanda hopes to create a more harmonious and more cohesive NRM that can adequately represent the citizens of Uganda. The internal NRM elections are a vital part of the party’s democratic process, whereby the members get an opportunity to choose the leaders who will shape the party’s path for the next couple of years. Mawanda’s entry into the race brings to the fore the importance of such elections and how they can determine the future direction of the party. His campaign is a testament to the political dynamism of Uganda and the political activism of its citizens in the democratic process. In conclusion, Hon.

Michael Maranga Mawanda’s bid for the NRM National Vice Chairperson, Western Region seat is a landmark in Uganda’s political history. His commitment to deepening NRM leadership in Western Uganda and grassroots mobilization have positioned him at the centre of the forthcoming elections. As momentum builds towards the campaign, Mawanda’s campaign will bring fresh energy and solutions into the NRM, making the party a force to contend with in Ugandan politics. With his eyes set and mind made up, Mawanda is poised to make a lasting impact in the party and in the region that he hopes to represent.