The NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, Dr. Tanga Odoi, has cautioned some of the party’s election district registrars that this time, they will not tolerate the irregularities and bribery that were displayed in the 2020 primaries.
Tanga made the remarks during a meeting organised by the NRM Electoral Commission to address issues concerning the conflicts that usually arise during NRM primaries.
The party’s Secretary General, Richard Todwong, emphasised the responsibility of the registrars to correct past mistakes in preparation for free and fair elections.
The EC has resolved that all members who intend to contest must sign an MOU impeding them from participating in the general election as independents should they fail in the primaries.
The meeting, organised by the NRM’s Electoral Commission, brought together senior party leaders and other stakeholders with the district and local election supervisors.
The goal was to address the recurring issues that often mar the party’s primaries a meeting characterised by strong language and stern warnings.
Dr. Tanga Odoi, the Chairperson of the Commission, strongly criticised some supervisors who were previously cited in the past elections for misconduct, including altering voters’ registers. “In Jinja, secondary school students were added to the register,” he said. “That is unacceptable.”
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong reiterated that the party is firmly committed to ensuring that the upcoming primaries are not discredited.
He also warned the registrars to avoid engaging in celebrations, as some of these events might be organised by aspirants.
“Many people are going to hold parties and celebrations. Some of them may be aspirants. This may put you in a compromising position. So when and if you attend, make your position clear that you are neutral,” he cautioned.
The party faces challenges in certain areas that have become notorious battlegrounds—including Ssembabule, Ntungamo, Kiruhura, Kazo, Mbale City, and Mbale District.
These issues stem from influential individuals who impose their will. This time, the Commission says such power struggles will be dealt with decisively before they escalate.
To ensure peace during the upcoming primaries, the Commission has committed to strengthening order. Supervisors will be equipped with advanced tools to simplify their work, and voters will be able to easily verify their registration status.
Also, all members that will contest in the primaries will be mandated to sign an MOU stopping them from contesting against a flag bearer in case they have lost during the primaries.