Brenda Kiconco, one of the contenders in the forthcoming National Resistance Movement (NRM) Youth League elections, has emphasized the need to restrict external labor migration for young Ugandans while strengthening inclusive employment systems within the country.
Speaking during the NRM Youth League Chairperson Debate at Next Media Park on Monday, Kiconco outlined her vision for empowering Ugandan youth through sustainable opportunities at home if elected as Youth Chairperson.
"I think we should restrict young people from getting out of the country to work, but put in place systems for inclusivity in terms of employment. I have travelled the whole world and I know the living systems there. I think Uganda has the best services," she said.
Kiconco further stressed that the fight against poverty should be a unifying factor for all Ugandans, regardless of political affiliation.
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"We are all children under the NRM. When we are fighting poverty, everyone is invited. Poverty doesn't know political parties," she added.
Outlining her plans for youth engagement, Kiconco pledged to establish a vibrant youth league for the next five years of NRM leadership, with annual delegates' conferences to strengthen networks among young people nationwide.
Her remarks come as the NRM prepares for repeat elections to select internal leaders representing the youth. The Central Executive Committee of the ruling party has set September 18 as the date for the polls.
The elections were initially suspended by President Museveni following chaotic scenes at Kololo Independence Grounds on August 27, where Collins Tanga, son of NRM Electoral Commission chairperson Tanga Odoi, was controversially declared winner with 1,567 votes against Brenda's 1,335.
The exercise was marred by violent clashes, irregularities in delegates' lists, and allegations of voter manipulation. Brenda, along with other candidates such as Mackline Natukwasa, petitioned the NRM Election Tribunal.
On September 8, the tribunal chaired by lawyer John Musiime annulled Tanga's victory and directed that fresh elections be organized, while also ordering Tanga Odoi to refrain from overseeing the repeat exercise.
Kiconco insists she had secured 1,355 votes but alleged that about 400 ballots were wrongfully added to Tanga's tally, inflating his total.
As the September 18 election nears, Brenda's call for inclusivity, unity, and youth-centered leadership is expected to resonate with delegates across the country.
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