A growing call for reforms in the ruling party has emerged after a youth leader pushed for an NRM independent electoral commission ahead of the upcoming delegates conference. Brenda Koconco, one of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) youth candidates, is urging the party to ensure fairness, credibility, and inclusivity in its internal elections.
Call for transparency in Kololo conference
Speaking about the preparations for the Kololo conference, Koconco stressed that young people want to see a peaceful and fair electoral process. She warned that any mishandling of the elections would not only damage the party’s credibility but also affect individuals working under the NRM banner.
“As young people, our desire is to see a peaceful election process because any mishandling during the Kololo conference will not only affect the party but also individuals who are working hard to serve under its banner,” Koconco explained.
Criticism of current NRM Electoral Commission
While affirming loyalty to President Museveni, Koconco openly accused the current NRM Electoral Commission of bias. She argued that its conduct has raised serious doubts about the credibility of the upcoming polls.
“We love our president; he is our focus. But those under him, especially the current NRM Electoral Commission, have proved to be biased. This has raised doubts about the fairness of the process,” she said.
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Wider concerns over internal democracy
Koconco emphasized that these concerns are not limited to youth members but cut across various wings of the party.
“We have seen complaints from all angles — women, youth, and other stakeholders. Everyone is saying the same thing. That is why we are requesting the president and the secretary general to consider putting in place an independent electoral commission that can manage the Kololo elections transparently,” she noted.
Implications for NRM unity
As the NRM prepares for its crucial delegates conference, political observers caution that unresolved grievances over internal democracy could create deeper divisions. However, Koconco expressed optimism that the leadership will address the concerns in the interest of party unity.
The demand for an NRM independent electoral commission highlights the growing pressure on party leaders to strengthen transparency and fairness in their internal systems, especially as the NRM shapes its future leadership and policies.
