LC1 victory: A renewed mandate to serve Ugandans better
The confidence that Ugandans have once again shown in the NRM reflects their appreciation of the peace, stability and development that our country has enjoyed over the years.
NRM secretary general Richard Todwong. (Courtesy photo)
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By Richard Todwong
The National Resistance Movement's commanding performance in the recently concluded Local Council 1 (LC1) elections is more than another electoral triumph. It is a reaffirmation of the trust millions of Ugandans continue to place in the NRM's vision, leadership and commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every NRM flag bearer who earned the confidence of the people to serve as LC1 chairperson. I also commend the many party members, mobilisers and supporters whose dedication and discipline made this victory possible. Above all, I thank the people of Uganda for participating peacefully in an election that reinforces the strength of our democracy and the importance of grassroots leadership.
The significance of the LC1 elections cannot be overstated. The village is where government meets the people. It is where development begins, where public concerns are first heard and where solutions to many community challenges are initiated. The LC1 chairperson is often the first leader a citizen turns to for guidance, representation and problem-solving.
That is why these elections matter. They are not merely about choosing local leaders; they are about selecting individuals who will become the face of government within their communities and partners in delivering national transformation.
The confidence that Ugandans have once again shown in the NRM reflects their appreciation of the peace, stability and development that our country has enjoyed over the years. It also demonstrates faith in our continued commitment to protecting these achievements while accelerating Uganda's journey towards high middle-income status.
As government continues implementing transformative programmes such as the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, improved agricultural extension services, infrastructure development and wealth creation initiatives, village leaders will play a decisive role in ensuring these programmes achieve their intended objectives.
They must help identify deserving beneficiaries fairly, mobilise communities to embrace government programmes and promote accountability in the use of public resources. They should become ambassadors of integrity and transparency, ensuring that corruption finds no space at the grassroots.
The NRM has consistently maintained that sustainable development cannot be driven by government alone. It requires active participation from citizens and effective leadership at every level. That is why strengthening local governance remains central to our philosophy of taking services closer to the people.
The just-concluded elections also offered another important lesson. Despite political competition, Ugandans demonstrated maturity by participating peacefully in the democratic process. This is a positive sign for our country's democratic growth and a reminder that elections should unite communities around development rather than divide them.
To those NRM candidates who did not succeed, I encourage you not to lose heart. Elections are only one aspect of political service. Your commitment, sacrifice and loyalty to the party remain invaluable. Continue working with the elected leaders to strengthen our movement and serve your communities. Unity after competition has always been one of the defining strengths of the NRM.
Equally, I urge all elected leaders, regardless of their political affiliation, to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations. Every Ugandan deserves quality services, opportunities for economic empowerment and responsive leadership. These goals can only be achieved through cooperation and a shared commitment to national development.
The aspirations of our people continue to evolve. Young people seek jobs and enterprise opportunities. Farmers want better markets and value addition. Families desire improved public services and higher household incomes. Meeting these expectations requires committed leadership from the national level right down to every village.
That is why the LC1 chairpersons elected this week carry an enormous responsibility. They are the foundation upon which stronger local governance and effective service delivery will be built. If they lead with honesty, humility and dedication, they will not only transform their villages but also strengthen Uganda's national development agenda.
The people have spoken with clarity through the ballot. They have renewed their confidence in the NRM and entrusted us with an even greater responsibility to serve.
We receive that mandate with gratitude, humility and determination. Together, let us move beyond the excitement of elections and focus on what truly matters—delivering better services, creating more opportunities, protecting the gains our country has made and building a more prosperous Uganda for every citizen.
Writer is Secretary General of the National Resistance Movement (NRM)