Todwong Explains Different Roles of NRM and PLU

What the report says

NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong has clarified the relationship between Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement and the Patriotic League of Uganda, saying they are separate structures but serve a shared political purpose, according to Nile Post. He said the NRM remains the party responsible for its manifesto and formal political work, while the PLU functions as an additional channel for mobilisation and outreach.

Todwong argued that the existence of different platforms should not be read as a split within the NRM. He described the arrangement as one broad struggle with different fronts, and said members and supporters may engage through the party headquarters, the office of the national chairman or the PLU. He suggested that some people may prefer alternative avenues because of internal tensions or other challenges within the party structure.

He also said the PLU has helped energise support in places where the NRM has previously struggled to perform well. At the same time, he rejected claims that PLU activity is meant to test the loyalty of NRM lawmakers or force politicians to choose sides. In his view, the group is aimed at widening mobilisation rather than creating factional competition.

On questions about 2031, Todwong said the party has an established roadmap and should not be drawn into premature succession debate. He said the immediate priority is implementation of the party’s agenda, and that individual preferences for future leadership should not be mistaken for an official NRM position.