The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretary General, Richard Todwong, has called for stronger civic education and greater voter focus on issues and manifestos, saying elections should be about addressing societal needs rather than attacking individuals.
Speaking on NBS Morning Breeze, Todwong cautioned against personalising government, arguing that such an approach undermines democratic governance. He noted that politics, as practiced by the NRM, is centered on responding to the shared needs of citizens.
Todwong highlighted the ruling party's organisational strength at the grassroots, revealing that the NRM fielded flag bearers for Local Council One (LC1) elections across the country, while some opposition parties failed to sponsor candidates at that level. He described this gap as evidence that parts of the country remain politically underrepresented.
He also criticised campaign approaches that rely on rhetoric and personal attacks rather than substance, saying some candidates offered little beyond criticism of NRM contenders. According to Todwong, this trend deprives voters of meaningful choices and informed debate.
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The NRM Secretary General stressed the need for the Electoral Commission and government to intensify civic education efforts, particularly to help voters understand electoral processes and evaluate candidates more critically.
He urged Ugandans to thoroughly scrutinise the manifestos of all candidates, especially those contesting for the presidency.
Acknowledging that every electoral cycle comes with challenges, Todwong said the NRM also faced intimidation of its supporters in some areas.
Despite these hurdles, he said the party focused on mobilising its base by reinforcing awareness of its symbol and candidates on the ballot.
Reflecting on the election outcome, Todwong said the party welcomed the victory, adding that it was largely expected. "It feels nice to win the election," he said, noting that the NRM had anticipated a landslide result.
Todwong's remarks come amid ongoing national conversations about electoral reforms, political participation, and the quality of democratic competition in Uganda.
