Uganda’s NRM at a Crossroads: Can Internal Democracy Survive the “Do or Die” Mentality?
Nearly six in ten Ugandans identify with a political party, and the National Resistance Movement (NRM) consistently commands the largest share of that allegiance. But a troubling trend threatens to erode the foundations of this dominance: the increasingly cutthroat and often violent nature of its internal primaries. What began as a liberation movement built on shared sacrifice and ideological conviction is now, according to some within its ranks, succumbing to a “do or die” culture, jeopardizing not only party unity but the very democratic principles it once championed.
The Ghosts of the Revolution and the Rise of “Abararya Ebyezire”
The NRM’s origins are rooted in a struggle against tyranny, a fight for a more just and equitable Uganda. President Museveni and his contemporaries successfully ousted Idi Amin, fueled by a genuine yearning for peace and democracy. This legacy of sacrifice, however, is fading, replaced by a new generation of politicians – as President Museveni himself has pointed out – the *“Abararya ebyezire”* (loosely translated as those who reap where they haven’t sown). These individuals, lacking the historical grounding and commitment to the original NRM ideals, view party positions as a pathway to personal enrichment, fostering a climate of ruthless competition.
The Failure of Joint Campaigns and Electoral Commission Inaction
Recognizing the escalating tensions, the NRM introduced joint campaigns during primaries, aiming to promote camaraderie and prevent the kind of animosity that often spills over into violence. However, this initiative has been undermined by candidates refusing to participate, with the NRM Electoral Commission often acquiescing through official letters. This passive acceptance of division is deeply concerning. The Commission’s reluctance to enforce party guidelines – to disqualify candidates engaging in intimidation, bribery, or violence – sends a dangerous message: that any means justify the end. This inaction directly contributes to the fracturing of constituencies after each primary, creating two opposing camps that, while still nominally supporting the NRM, harbor deep-seated resentment.
The Erosion of Ideology and the Rise of “Small Gods”
A core problem lies in the diminishing understanding of NRM ideology among its members. Many candidates now prioritize personal ambition over the party’s founding principles, imposing their own agendas and demanding compliance from party officials. This is particularly detrimental to young people and less powerful members who lack the resources to challenge the established order. The result is the emergence of “small gods” – individuals who operate with impunity, exploiting NRM structures and symbols to deceive voters and consolidate their power. Even the President, it’s acknowledged, struggles to control these figures through conventional state mechanisms.
Vote-Buying and the Distortion of Public Service
The practice of vote-buying, a corrosive element in many democracies, is rampant within NRM primaries. The question isn’t whether candidates need to bribe voters, but rather that they can get away with it. This fundamentally undermines fair competition and creates a system where leaders prioritize recouping their “investment” over genuine public service. Consequently, crucial services – transport, electricity, healthcare – are neglected, hindering poverty reduction and fueling public discontent. This cycle of self-serving politics directly contradicts the NRM’s original commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Ugandans.
Reconciling the Past with the Future: A Path Forward
The current trajectory is unsustainable. The NRM must urgently address the internal rot that threatens to dismantle its legacy. Strengthening internal disciplinary mechanisms, empowering the Electoral Commission to enforce its own rules, and actively promoting reconciliation after primaries are crucial first steps. More fundamentally, a renewed emphasis on ideological education is needed, reminding members of the sacrifices made to build a new Uganda and reaffirming the party’s commitment to justice, fairness, and transparency. Without a concerted effort to restore these core values, the NRM risks becoming a shell of its former self, vulnerable to fragmentation and ultimately, to opposition forces. The future of Ugandan democracy may well depend on whether the NRM can rediscover the spirit of its founding fathers and forge a path towards genuine internal democracy. What steps will the NRM take to ensure a level playing field for all its members and restore faith in its leadership?
