In an effort to fortify its influence and enhance support at the grassroots level, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has introduced champion groups in Mukono district ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
The groups were officially launched at Kiyunga in Kyampisi Sub County.
These champion groups, clarified as not intended to replace existing party structures, are party enthusiasts committed to canvassing support and promoting NRM ideologies within the community on a voluntary basis.
Their mission extends beyond mere political advocacy to include initiatives aimed at enhancing members’ welfare through commercial ventures, skill development, and access to small loans for personal and community development.
According to Major (Rtd) Awich Pollar Okwir, who represented Vice President Jessica Alupo, the significance of such initiatives is keeping the party dynamic.
“NRM is bound to state building and is dedicated to building permanent institutions. With such initiatives, we are building more leaders who also have a financial base,” he stated.
At the launch, Okwir delivered UGX4 million to support the Kiyunga champion group in their development ventures. He encouraged them to actively engage in efforts to bring back NRM members who lost in the recent party elections.
Ronald Kibuule former Minister of state for water, appointed as the patron of these initiatives, stressed the importance of harmonious coexistence between champion groups and the party’s structural leadership.
Kibuule outlined the broader vision for the initiative, stating it will extend across the entire district, with party members actively participating in government programs, monitoring, and spearheading mobilization efforts to restore NRM’s electoral success.
Acknowledging the losses suffered by the NRM party, particularly in the Central Region during recent elections, Kibuule emphasized the need for organized efforts before the election period.
He expressed confidence that proactive unification of party members would pave the way for future victories.
Kibuule expressed interest in standing as Member of Parliament in Mukono County North in the coming general elections emphasizing that in the eyes of the residents, the current MP Abdallah Kiwanuka’s impact doesn’t appear significant or noticeable.
But on various occasions Kiwanuka has always claimed to be on ground and visible.
Championing Enterprise
Juliet Amon, the Chairperson of Kiyunga Champions Group, outlined the diverse initiatives the groups are involved in, ranging from chicken rearing, apiary, decoration, to food vending.
Beyond economic endeavours, the groups are strategically focused on neutralizing opposition propaganda and elevating the party and its chairman in the public consciousness.
As Mukono becomes the focal point for these champion groups, the NRM aims to not only regain lost ground but also establish a robust foundation for sustained party vitality and influence at the grassroots level.
Criteria
The groups at parish level have more than 300 members. Within this champion group framework, the NRM enlists willing individuals to become party members, with the understanding that they finance their initiatives in return for support during elections.
However, political analysts caution that this model could be susceptible to infiltration by opportunists who might disrupt their strategic plans.
