By Collines J Mawa
The NRM came to power based on a 10 point program, which originally were; Democracy, Security, Consolidation of National security and elimination of all forms of sectarianism, Defending and consolidating National Independence, Building an integrated and self-sustaining economy, Restoration & improvement of Social services, *elimination of corruption and misuse of power* , redressing errors that have resulted in the dislocation of sections of the population, co-operation with other African countries in defending human and democratic rights and following an economic strategy of mixed economy.
Whereas these 10 point programs had to change based on evolving priorities, they remained the fulcrum of the party. In 1999, Dr. Besigye issued a critique of the inner workings of the NRM. It was clear that the party was slowly deviating from the very fulcrum of its formation. This should have been an opportunity for the party to evolve in the right direction. Instead, Besigye became the villian of the story.
Today's NRM and the government it runs is nothing short of the NRM for which thousands bled and lost their lives. It has become a den of thieves and a hideout for self-seekers. Individuals with a genuine desire to revive the party are threatened and some become "rebel members".
Let's face it, the easiest way change would come to NRM and maybe Uganda is if it comes from within; and starts with someone who cannot be threatened by the state apparatus, and who is better placed than the first son?
Muhoozi's critic of the party and his disdain for it's inner workings is an opportunity for NRM to realize it's current trajectory is unsustainable, and it's brand of politics is no longer appealing.
Meanwhile, as the these cracks begin to appear in the NRM, the opposition can capitalize on the moment to offer a better alternative to governance.
In the end, Uganda will have a revived NRM and a stronger opposition, and wether he becomes president or not, Muhoozi will be credited for starting the movement that ultimately revived the political systems of Uganda.
The writer is a perpetual student of political science.
Email; cmawah2rjeremiah@gmail.com
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