KAMPALA, UGANDA – July 21, 2025 – President Yoweri Museveni has declared a crackdown against what he describes as “self-seekers” and “criminals” who he claims are “polluting” the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries. In a strongly worded letter addressed to NRM members and Ugandans, particularly the youth (“Bazzukulu”), Museveni announced that state agencies have already begun anti-crime operations, leading to the arrest of eight individuals suspected of altering results.
The President’s message, which followed up on a previous communication, expressed gratitude for the public’s response to his concerns regarding the integrity of the primaries. He emphasized the “glorious heritage” of the NRM/NRA/FRONASA, a legacy built by “martyrs and heroes,” contrasting it sharply with the actions of those he accuses of undermining the process for personal gain.
The ruling party conducted internal elections across the country last week but the process was marked by incidents of violence, bribery and altering of results resulting into widespread discontent among the members. By Monday morning, the party electoral commission had reported at least 20 petitions from candidates who claim their victory had been snatched.
“I want to assure you that the state agencies of Uganda have started the necessary anti-crime actions against the self-seekers,” President Museveni stated. He confirmed that the initial focus is on “clear cases of the idiots alleged to have altered the results in the tallying.”
According to Mr Museveni, the eight individuals arrested hail from various districts across Uganda, including Mayuge, Buyende, Kapchorwa, Pader, Oyam, Rwampara, Karenga, and Mbarara. The President indicated that “other targets are being followed up,” suggesting further arrests are imminent.
In his letter, signed with his titles “Ssaabalwanyi Ssemalungu” (loosely translating to “Chief Fighter” or “Mighty One”), Museveni urged the public to provide evidence of other alleged offenses, specifically mentioning violence, bribery, and interference with voter registers. He also revealed the formation of a committee comprising “powerful lawyers” to handle petitions arising from the primaries.
“We shall clean up the NRM as we also defend the wider interests of all the Ugandans,” Museveni affirmed, underscoring his commitment to both party integrity and national well-being. The President pledged to keep the public informed as the investigations and actions progress.
