The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has commenced a nationwide effort to identify and train Vote Protectors in preparation for the 2026 General Elections.
Spearheaded by Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, Senior Presidential Advisor and Head of the Office of the National Chairperson (ONC), the initiative aims to safeguard the party’s votes and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
This move comes after President Museveni’s recent claims that over one million votes were rigged during the 2021 elections, with the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) allegedly benefiting the most.
Mr Museveni, during a security expo in September 2024, emphasized the need for stricter measures to combat "vote theft," particularly in Buganda, and urged the NRM to bolster its electoral vigilance.
The ONC’s response includes mobilizing grassroots-level Vote Protectors, who will undergo rigorous selection and training.
To qualify, individuals must be registered NRM members aged 25-40, possess valid national IDs, and have at least a Senior Four education.
Knowledge of ICT and electoral laws, along with security training, is also required.
Al-Hajji Moses Kigongo, NRM's national vice chairman, highlighted the importance of loyalty and patriotism during the launch, urging Vote Protectors to resist bribes and remain committed to the party's values.
Namyalo emphasized that this initiative will deter any attempts at vote rigging, declaring that the NRM is fully committed to safeguarding its electoral victories.
The program will be closely monitored, with village-level nominations thoroughly vetted and supervised to ensure transparency as the NRM prepares for a fair and credible election in 2026.
