In a bid to strengthen the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and address pressing community issues, party leaders in Mukono District have launched an initiative to resolve land disputes and foster unity among members. The move comes amid growing concerns over land grabbing and internal conflicts that have threatened the party's cohesion in the region.
During a series of meetings held across various sub-counties, including Nakifuma and Naggalama Town Council, NRM leaders engaged with local residents to understand their grievances. Over 40 villages participated in the discussions, with many residents accusing local leaders and wealthy individuals of forcefully evicting them from their land.
In some areas, such as Kabulo-Makukuba, residents claimed that police officers had been complicit in land grabbing, allegedly siding with wealthy landowners like Kabagambe. These actions have not only caused suffering among the locals but have also tarnished the image of the NRM, as many residents feel abandoned by the party they once supported.
The residents appealed to President Yoweri Museveni to intervene and hold accountable those responsible for the injustices. They also expressed frustration over the mismanagement of funds under the Parish Development Model (PDM), with many claiming they have not benefited from the program despite contributing to it.
The NRM leadership, led by District Chairperson Hajji Twair Ssebagala, organized a reconciliation meeting in Nakifuma to address these issues. The meeting aimed to find solutions to the challenges facing the party and restore trust among its members.
During the meeting, Hajji Ssebagala urged the police to stop harassing residents and evicting them from their land. He warned that such actions were damaging the party's reputation and undermining President Museveni's efforts to promote peace and development.
The NRM leaders also called for unity within the party, urging members to avoid internal conflicts and work together to strengthen the organization. They emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing the concerns of the people.
Milly Babalanda, the Minister for the Presidency, who was represented by Engineer Ian Kyeyune, encouraged party members to focus on resolving disputes and building a stronger NRM. She stressed the need for the party to regain the trust of the people and ensure that development programs like the PDM benefit all residents.
The Mukono Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Hajjati Nabitaka Ndisaba Fatuma, called for a thorough investigation into the land disputes and urged residents with evidence to come forward. She assured the community that those found guilty of wrongdoing would be held accountable.
The initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges facing the NRM in Mukono District. By resolving land disputes and promoting unity, the party hopes to regain the confidence of its members and strengthen its position in the region.
