The National Resistance Movement (NRM) faced turmoil in its registration process in Masaka as its leader confiscated the party register, disrupting ongoing efforts to register new members. The incident, which occurred on March 13, involved Ms. Saudah Nalujja, the village chairperson of NRM Gayaza Fuuwe Ward in Kimaanya –Kabonera Municipality.
Confiscation of Party Register
Ms. Nalujja reportedly stormed the registration venue and seized the party register from Ms. Proscovia Nalubega, accusing her of being a stranger planted by the Opposition to disrupt the registration exercise. This unexpected action left party members in shock, prompting Ms. Nalubega to report the incident to Kimaanya –Kabonera Police Station.
Police Intervention
After confiscating the register, Ms. Nalujja took it to the nearby Kirimya Police Post and reported her concerns. She later traveled to Kaddukagala trading center, where she operates a retail shop. The police, upon receiving the complaint, contacted Ms. Nalujja to gather details of the incident. Mr. Twaha Kasirye, the Masaka Greater Police spokesperson, confirmed the incident and stated that NRM leaders in Masaka were entrusted with resolving the matter internally.
Resolution and Clarification
Ms. Nalujja, in her defense, expressed suspicion towards Ms. Nalubega, believing her to be an Opposition member intending to sabotage the party’s registration efforts. However, upon seeking clarification from other party leaders, she realized her mistake and returned the confiscated register. She maintained that her actions were not malicious but rather a result of misunderstanding.
The disruption caused by the confiscation of the NRM party register in Masaka reflects internal tensions within the party and highlights challenges in ensuring a smooth registration process. Despite the setback, efforts to update the NRM registers and register new members continue, with the national registration period expected to conclude on March 17.
