Delegates from the Karamoja and Teso subregions have formally endorsed Mukasa Ssewava S.J as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate for the Central Region Vice Chairperson slot on the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC).
The endorsement marks a major boost to Ssewava’s bid as he seeks to unseat the opposition dominance in Buganda and strengthen the NRM’s presence ahead of the 2026 elections.
While addressing hundreds of delegates during a consultative meetings in Soroti and Moroto, Ssewava said the NRM must continue investing in young leaders to ensure the continuity of the revolutionary spirit that has sustained the party for nearly four decades.
“The army invests in generational soldiers through ideological orientation so that continuity is guaranteed. The NRM must equally invest in young leaders because young people will never remain young forever. They must be prepared, guided, and empowered to take up the mantle of leadership,” Ssewava said.
He explained that his candidature has already attracted widespread support from across Uganda, including backing from Karamoja and Teso subregions.
He thanked the delegates for their trust and urged them to serve the NRM party with humility, dedication, and a long-term vision.
Ssewava also cautioned Teso delegates against “selling their votes” during elections, warning that such practices undermine both individual progress and the collective future of the movement.
“If you want to emerge as leaders of tomorrow, never sell your votes. The leaders we elect must provide strategic guidance to NRM and its establishment. CEC is not a ceremonial position; it requires individuals who understand the history of NRM and can sustain its values,” he emphasized.
Among his pledges, Ssewava committed to intensify grassroots mobilization, create opportunities for youth employment, and ensure that cadres across the country are integrated into meaningful appointments, particularly as Resident District Commissioners (RDCs).
Delegates from Teso hailed Ssewava’s message, describing him as a bridge between the youth and the senior leadership of the NRM, including President Museveni.
Apeduno Judith, a youth leader from Soroti City, alongside Amuria District Female Councillor Edyegu Brenda and Serere Youth League representative Syliveters Omer, expressed confidence in Ssewava’s ability to inspire young people within the ruling party.
Ekungu John Omaido, a veteran publicity cadre, also pledged his full support, noting that Ssewava’s grassroots mobilization strategy could reinvigorate NRM structures that have weakened in some areas of Buganda.
Enock Opio, the NRM Chairperson for Soroti City West, appreciated Ssewava for reaching out directly to Teso leaders.
“We thank him for coming to Teso and listening to our concerns. We have asked him to connect most of our cadres to appointments as RDCs so that they can actively participate in governance and implementation of NRM policies,” Opio stated.
Sarah Inachu, the Soroti City Woman MP Flag Bearer, applauded the youth delegates from Teso for rallying behind Ssewava.
She said his candidacy provides a strong counterweight to the dominance of the National Unity Platform (NUP) in Buganda.
“The youth in Bobi Wine’s age bracket have been swayed by opposition propaganda. If one of their own is elected to CEC, it will help neutralize NUP’s influence. Ssewava can speak directly to the youth and correct the lies they have been fed by NUP,” Inachu argued.
She added that Ssewava’s leadership could usher in a transformative phase for Buganda, reestablishing NRM’s political strength in a region where the opposition has gained traction in recent years.
Akol Moses, the Coordinator for Ssewava, described him as a “bridging stone” between the youth and the President.
“The NRM supports leaders who bring about positive change. Ssewava is one such leader, he connects the aspirations of the young people with the vision of President Museveni. That is why he has won the trust of both Karamoja and Teso delegates,” Akol said.
He also called on other regions to follow Teso and Karamoja’s example, noting that national unity within the party will strengthen the NRM’s hold on power in 2026 and beyond.
Ssewava’s endorsement by Karamoja and Teso delegates represents a significant milestone in his campaign.
Observers note that if elected, he would become one of the youngest figures on the CEC, signaling a generational shift within the NRM leadership.
As the NRM looks to consolidate its structures and counter the rising popularity of opposition movements in Buganda, Ssewava’s candidacy is seen as a strategic move to appeal to the youthful electorate while maintaining the party’s revolutionary heritage.
In his closing remarks, Ssewava promised to remain accessible to the grassroots and champion policies that improve livelihoods, especially for the youth.
“My commitment is to mobilize, to inspire, and to serve. Together, we can secure the future of the NRM and the country,” he said.
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