By KT Reporter
KYANKWANZI, UGANDA — The Director in Charge of Mobilization for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Dr. Rosemary Nansubuga Sseninde, has called on party leaders and newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) to begin working immediately toward securing victory in the 2031 general elections.
Speaking at the ongoing NRM retreat for newly elected legislators at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, Sseninde emphasized that early preparation, discipline, and grassroots engagement will be critical in sustaining the party’s dominance.
She commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for supporting the orientation retreat, noting that it has come at a crucial time—before MPs are sworn in—giving them a head start in understanding their roles.
“I want to thank His Excellency the President for supporting this activity because newly elected Members of Parliament need orientation. It is important that we are giving them this guidance even before they swear in,” she said.
Drawing from her two decades of experience as a legislator representing Wakiso District, Sseninde told the MPs that such early exposure was rare in the past and should be fully utilized.
“I served in Parliament for 20 years, but I do not remember having such an opportunity before swearing in. These leaders are fortunate and must take advantage of it,” she noted.
During her presentation, Sseninde focused on leadership branding, urging MPs to define the kind of leaders they want to be and to actively engage with their constituents beyond parliamentary debates.
“As a leader, the major question is: what kind of leader do you want to be? You must go beyond being a voice in Parliament and truly engage your people, lobby for them, and make them feel your presence,” she said.
She also warned that without proper guidance, legislators risk losing direction and failing to secure a second term. She urged them to embrace research, consult parliamentary technical staff, and build confidence in debate and representation.
“It is not just about standing up to speak. You must do your research, engage with technical officers, and understand issues before presenting them,” she added.
Sseninde further highlighted the importance of personal growth, encouraging MPs to pursue education and self-improvement during and after their tenure.
“When I joined Parliament, I was a diploma holder. Today, I am a PhD holder. Parliament should not be the end of your growth,” she said.
She also cautioned especially young legislators against lifestyle excesses and personal pitfalls, including neglecting family responsibilities.
“Leadership comes with excitement and exposure, but you must remain grounded. Respect your families, because they are the ones who will receive you when you leave office,” she advised.
Reflecting on the NRM’s recent electoral performance, Sseninde credited grassroots mobilization, teamwork, and a strong campaign message for the party’s success. She said the strategy, which emphasized village-level engagement, played a central role in delivering victory.
“We agreed on a grassroots-based mobilization strategy, worked as a team, and implemented it effectively. The colorful rallies and eventual victory were a result of that effort,” she said.
However, she expressed belief that the party’s support base is even larger than reflected in official results.
“I am convinced we got about 80 percent support. There were many factors, including uncounted votes and spoiled ballots, that affected the final tally,” she argued.
Looking ahead, Sseninde urged all leaders to remain focused on service delivery and manifesto implementation, stressing that performance will determine future electoral success.
“The journey to 2031 started yesterday. We must work for the people, protect the gains, and implement our manifesto fully,” she said.
She added that effective oversight, budgeting, and accountability will be key roles for MPs in ensuring government programs deliver tangible results.
“I am looking forward to even stronger support in the next election, but that will depend on how well we serve the people now,” she concluded.
-UBC. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
