The Revivalist Movement: A Call to Renew the Founding Principles of the NRM

*By John Kusolo*

In the dynamic political landscape of Uganda, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has stood as a pillar of governance, transforming the nation through its ideals of democracy, inclusivity, transparency, and accountability. However, a new internal pressure group within the party, the Revivalist Movement, has emerged, aiming to address growing concerns over the party's deviation from these founding principles.

Led by Isaac Rukanda, the Team Leader and Chief Commissar, the Revivalist Movement is a coalition of young cadres and patriots who are deeply committed to reviving the NRM’s democratic roots. Speaking at a recent press briefing, Rukanda laid out the group’s mission, concerns, and actions aimed at ensuring the party remains strong, united, and true to its original vision.

The Revivalist Movement arose from frustration over the failure of the NRM leadership to address critical internal issues. According to Rukanda, efforts to resolve these matters through letters, petitions, and dialogue were repeatedly ignored, leaving the group with no option but to speak out publicly.

Their goal, however, is not to oppose the NRM leadership but to restore the party to its roots. “We come to you not as adversaries but as compatriots who have NRM at heart,” said Rukanda.

The Revivalist Movement has identified several pressing concerns that threaten the party's democratic fabric:

1. Failure to Hold Internal Elections

The group filed a legal suit, Civil Case Miscellaneous Cause No. 0230 of 2024, against the NRM party, its Secretary General, and the Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission. The suit challenges the party's failure to conduct internal elections since 2016, violating both the NRM Constitution and Uganda’s national constitution.

Rukanda emphasized that internal elections are a cornerstone of democracy within the NRM. Leaders whose terms expired in 2020 continue to occupy offices illegally, undermining the party's credibility.

2. Neglect of Party Registers and Membership Cards

Since 2015, the NRM has failed to issue membership cards or maintain an updated party register. This has left members disenfranchised and without formal identification, a critical lapse in party management.

3. Leadership Accountability

The Revivalist Movement criticized the absence of key NRM leaders during crucial events, such as the Kisoro by-election. Rukanda pointed out that this disconnect between leadership and grassroots supporters threatens the party’s cohesion and effectiveness.

4. Inclusivity and Youth Empowerment

The Revivalist Movement stressed the need to empower youth and marginalized groups within the NRM. They called for greater involvement of young people in party mobilization, leadership, and decision-making processes.

Rukanda’s legal suit seeks to compel the NRM leadership to adhere to its constitutional obligations. He dismissed excuses like the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that Uganda successfully conducted presidential and parliamentary elections during the same period.

The Revivalist Movement argues that the failure to hold internal elections is a deliberate neglect of responsibility. The group hopes the legal action will restore internal democracy and compel leaders to respect the party’s constitution.

The Revivalist Movement has urged all NRM members, especially the youth, to join their efforts in renewing the party. “It is your duty and responsibility to protect the NRM and the values it stands for,” said Rukanda.

The group also commended President Yoweri Museveni for his unwavering commitment to the NRM and the country. They praised his leadership in fulfilling 84% of the 2021-2026 manifesto pledges and emphasized the need for other party leaders to follow his example.

The Revivalist Movement’s mission is rooted in the desire to restore the NRM’s commitment to democracy, transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Rukanda outlined the group’s objectives:

Ensuring the voices of all NRM members are heard.

Holding leaders accountable to their mandates.

Fostering a culture of openness and engagement within the party.

The group also acknowledged the efforts of grassroots organizations like the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), whose mobilization efforts have kept the NRM ideology alive.

The Revivalist Movement, under the leadership of Isaac Rukanda, represents a critical moment of introspection for the NRM. By addressing issues of democracy, inclusivity, and accountability, the group seeks to ensure that the NRM remains the transformative political organization it has always been.

Their fight is not against the party but for its future. As Rukanda stated, “Together, we can restore our party to its founding principles and ensure that it remains the strongest political organization in Uganda and Africa.”

The coming months will reveal whether the Revivalist Movement can achieve its mission and inspire a renewed commitment to the NRM’s founding ideals.