By Jamila Kemigisa
Fort Portal City – In a significant political shift, over 100 youths from Western Uganda have formally joined the National Resistance Movement (NRM), marking a departure from opposition parties like the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC). This defection was celebrated during the launch of the NRM Changed Youth initiative at Boma Grounds in Fort Portal City.
Bayole Stanley, the Resident City Commissioner (RCC) for Fort Portal, welcomed the new members, urging them to prioritize security over education based on his own harrowing experiences as a victim of Idi Amin’s regime. He emphasized the importance of making the most of government initiatives, particularly the Parish Development Model (PDM), and cautioned that while the government offers support, it comes with the expectation of hard work.
Stanley also stressed the need for youths to use social media responsibly. He pointed out that too many young people have been using these platforms to attack and insult local leaders, such as LC1s, RDCs, and Members of Parliament. Instead, he encouraged them to utilize social media to seek out business opportunities and valuable resources that could benefit their lives.
Bwambale Moses, Chairperson of NRM Changed Youth in Western Uganda, revealed that over 100 new members had joined the party, including prominent figures such as Thembo Samuel, the National Unity Platform coordinator for Kasese District, and Mugisa Jackson, the DP coordinator.
Bunyangabu District RDC Kamukama Nicholas welcomed the new members with a powerful biblical reference, quoting the parable of the prodigal son from Luke Chapter 15. He urged the youth to make full use of the RDC’s office and take advantage of government programs like the Youth Livelihood Program (YLP).
Kawamara Misach, Senior Presidential Advisor for Western Uganda in charge of Mobilization, who was the guest of honor, advised the new converts to be patient and remain committed to the NRM. He cautioned them that while immediate results might not be apparent, they would eventually benefit from the government’s programs, including PDM, Emyooga, and YLP.
The event underscored a dramatic shift in political allegiance, with leaders urging the youth to direct their energy toward productive national development initiatives, fostering a stronger and more prosperous future for Uganda.
