KAMPALA
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has postponed the highly anticipated elections for Chairperson of the National Entrepreneurs League following serious allegations of electoral malpractice and delegate manipulation.
The decision was made after King Ceaser Mulenga’s camp lodged a formal complaint against rival candidate Hassan Basajabalaba, accusing his team of coercive tactics and vote-buying. According to the complaint, Basajabalaba allegedly ferried delegates to neighboring countries Kenya and Tanzania where they were promised financial incentives in exchange for their votes.
The matter was brought to the attention of NRM National Chairman, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who responded swiftly during the delegates conference on Monday, August 25th. In a stern warning, Museveni condemned the alleged actions, stating, “You are playing with fire. One individual cannot bring down the entire party with corruption. This is exactly what killed UPC.” He called for immediate investigations and vowed that any culprits would be dealt with decisively.
NRM spokesperson Emmanuel Dombo echoed the president’s sentiments, describing the alleged concealment of delegates as a “primitive act.” Dombo emphasized that if credible evidence is presented, the party’s internal organs have the authority to disqualify any candidate involved in such misconduct.
The Electoral Commission Chairperson is expected to issue an official statement in the coming days, announcing a new date for the Entrepreneurs League elections once investigations are complete.
This development has cast a shadow over the party’s internal democratic processes and raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the NRM’s leadership structures. Political observers are closely watching how the party navigates the fallout, as the outcome may set a precedent for future internal elections.
