'GenZ for Gen7': NRM youth form new pressure group

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A group of youths under the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party have formed a pressure group dubbed GenZ for Gen7, months ahead of Uganda's 2026 general election.

"As a generation, we are ready to defend the legacy of the NRM and carry forward its vision of progress and stability,” said founder Israel Kyarisiima at a press conference at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala on Friday (January 24).

He was flanked by fellow group members who all wore T-shirts bearing their insignia and an image of NRM party chairman President Yoweri Museveni.

Kyarisiima said the new group is looking to drum up support for Museveni who is widely expected to vie for another term in office.

A group of youths under the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party have formed a pressure group dubbed GenZ for Gen7, months ahead of Uganda's 2026 general election. (Photo by Simon Peter Tumwine)

Museveni, who has over 3.5 million followers on social media platform X alone, often refers to the youths as the Bazzukkulu (grandchildren).

Uganda's youth population is considered one of the youngest in the world.

“Gen Zs [the generation of people born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s] are fully ready to support Yoweri Museveni’s candidature," said the new pressure group's leader.

"He has consistently proven to be a leader with Uganda and its people at heart, embodying the values and the aspiration of our generation."

The group said the Ugandan leader's leadership and vision have set the foundation for peace, stability and progress in Uganda, which they say makes Museveni the best person to continue leading Uganda into the future.

Kyarisiima said that as Uganda marks the 39th liberation day of the NRM party this Sunday (January 26), "we must celebrate the legacy of liberation and promise of a brighter tomorrow".

“Let us stand united in our commitment to uphold this vision and take action to secure our future."

The group used the same platform to rally eligible Gen Zs to actively participate in the ongoing general update of the national voters’ register.

They said participation of every Ugandan in the electoral process is crucial in shaping the direction of the country.