The political landscape in Uganda has taken a new turn with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) announcing its support for opposition and independent candidates, according to statements made by PLU’s national spokesperson, Andrew Mwenda.
This shift comes in the wake of significant changes within PLU’s central executive committee, particularly following the appointment of key members to roles within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. The departure of PLU’s chairperson, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and vice-chairperson, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, to positions in the NRM government left a void within the organization.
Mwenda, a seasoned journalist, revealed the new appointments within PLU aimed at revitalizing the movement. Micheal Nuwagira, also known as Toyota, has assumed the role of acting chairperson, taking over from Gen. Kainerugaba. Additionally, Igara East Member of Parliament, Michael Maranga Mawanda, has been appointed as the new director of mobilization.
Other key appointments include David Kabanda as the general secretary, Edwin Karugire as the director of legal affairs, and Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi as the vice-chairperson for the western region. These appointments signal PLU’s commitment to furthering its objectives and expanding its influence across various regions of Uganda.
Mwenda emphasized PLU’s intention to sponsor candidates who align with its objectives in the upcoming elections. Regardless of political affiliation, whether NRM, National Unity Platform (NUP), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), or independent, candidates who share PLU’s vision of stability, peace, economic transformation, and anti-corruption efforts will receive support.
The league’s leadership structure includes representatives from various regions, including Frank Gashumba for the central region, Lilian Aber for the northern region, and Haruna Kasolo for Greater Masaka, among others. These leaders, along with Mwenda, are tasked with advancing PLU’s goals, including fostering patriotism, nationalism, and combating corruption.
Launched on February 7, 2024, PLU aims to address longstanding issues facing Uganda by promoting unity, integrity, and good governance.
According to Mwenda, with its newfound focus on supporting opposition and independent candidates, PLU seeks to bring about “meaningful change” and political transformation in the country.
