NRM Secretariat Dispatches Data Centre Supervisors for Party Membership Register Digitalization

*By John Kusolo*

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretariat today officially dispatched a team of data centre supervisors to oversee the digitalization of the party's membership register across the country. The initiative aims to ensure a clean, credible, and reliable voters' register ahead of the upcoming elections for both party structure leaders and primary elections.

The exercise, set to commence tomorrow, Wednesday, November 28, 2024, will run for 21 days. It will operate in 20 established data centres located in major regions, including Kampala, Mbarara, Jinja, and Hoima, among others. Supervisors will collaborate with zonal coordinators, IT officers, verification officers, and data entrants to ensure the seamless execution of this crucial project.

*Commitment to Democratic Integrity*

Flagging off the exercise at the NRM Secretariat headquarters, the Deputy Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Rose Namayanja, emphasized the party's commitment to democracy through the maintenance of a clean voters' register.

“The foundation of democracy lies in maintaining a clean register that guarantees credible internal elections. As stewards of this critical process, your role is not just administrative but historic, as it ensures the integrity of our democratic systems,” Namayanja remarked.

She urged the supervisors to ensure their respective centres are fully operational and equipped with the necessary resources to carry out their mandate effectively.

“Collaborate closely with team leaders, provide timely feedback, and address any gaps with urgency. With everyone’s cooperation, we are confident of a successful outcome for this initiative,” she added.

*Support Mechanisms in Place*

The Director of Finance and Administration, Hajjat Medina Naham, reassured the supervisors of adequate support from the Secretariat to ensure the success of the exercise.

“We have set up a rapid response team at the headquarters which shall be responsible for solving any emerging issues from the field,” Hajjat Naham stated.

This support structure underscores the Secretariat's commitment to addressing potential challenges promptly and ensuring that the exercise remains on track.

*High-Level Participation*

The event was graced by top officials from the NRM Secretariat, reflecting the importance of the initiative. Notable attendees included:

Hon. Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oundo, NRM National Treasurer

Hon. Jacqueline Kyatuhaire, Deputy National Treasurer

Hon. Rosemary Nansubuga Seninde, Director of Mobilization

Hon. Emmanuel Dombo, Director of Information

Major (Rtd) Awich Pollar, Director of External Affairs

Major (Rtd) Akwir Rwabwoni, Director of Youth and Institutions

Counsel Enoch Barata, Legal Director

Dr. Tanga Odoi, NRM Electoral Commission Chairman

Hon. Arimpa Kigyagi, Deputy EC Chairperson

Hon. Alisemera Babiiha, EC Commissioner

*Historical Significance*

This digitalization exercise is a landmark step in modernizing the NRM’s membership management system. It seeks to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the party’s electoral processes.

The 21-day initiative will play a critical role in shaping the internal party elections and solidifying the party's democratic framework. Supervisors have been entrusted with ensuring that their centres are hubs of efficiency, collaboration, and innovation.

The success of this exercise is expected to set a precedent for other political organizations in Uganda and the region. By leveraging technology and implementing robust support systems, the NRM aims to position itself as a model for credible electoral processes.

As the exercise unfolds, all eyes will be on the 20 data centres to witness how the NRM transforms its membership management and electoral systems into a digital-first operation.