Most Opposition parties are ideologically anaemic, says Baryomunsi
“When you examine these parties closely, they’re ideologically anaemic. All you hear is ‘Museveni agende’, (Museveni must go),” he said.
Lydia Wanyoto, the chairperson Women’s league of the NRM party, Chris Baryomunsi ,the NRM Vice Chairperson Western and with Godfrey Kiwanda, the NRM vice chairperson of the NRM party in Buganda addressing the media at the NRM secretariat. (Photos by Simon Peter Tumwine)
By Jeff Andrew Lule
Journalists @New Vision
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National Resistance Movement (NRM) vice-chairperson (western region) Dr Chris Baryomunsi says they have always focused on President Yoweri Museveni as head of state because Uganda’s Opposition parties are ideologically weak.
Baryomunsi, who is also the Government information minister, says the only unifying ideology among many Opposition groups seems to be the removal of President Yoweri Museveni.
“When you examine these parties closely, they’re ideologically anaemic. All you hear is ‘Museveni agende’, (Museveni must go),” he said.
Addressing journalists at the NRM secretariat in Kampala city on July 29, 2025, Baryomunsi also announced his intention to seek re-election to his CEC position.
He attributed the NRM’s continued electoral success to its clear ideological direction and inclusive approach.
“The NRM is a multi-ideological party that embraces all Ugandans,” he said.
Chris Baryomunsi, the NRM Vice Chairperson Western sharing a light moment with Godfrey Kiwanda, the NRM vice chairperson of the NRM party in Buganda region at the NRM secretariat during a press briefing 
Regarding the recent party primaries, Baryomunsi emphasised that the NRM does not condone violence.
“We believe in a fair and clear process that allows Ugandans to choose leaders of their choice.”
Responding to claims from some opponents that he holds too many positions, Baryomunsi defended his track record, pointing out that President Museveni also holds multiple roles, including that of party chairperson, President and commander-in-chief, yet still delivers in all capacities.
“I have no pressure from the number of people joining the race,” he said.
Baryomunsi is expected to face off against 10 other contestants.
“I’m not a topsoil politician. I’ve traversed all these districts in my region. Those claiming I haven't held regional meetings haven’t read the party constitution. There’s no requirement for regional meetings, only the national conference, NEC meetings, and district conferences are mandated,” he explained.
He also welcomed the growing interest in the CEC position, saying it reflects a raised profile of the office. However, he clarified that the role is not salaried but a voluntary one, meant to provide guidance and contribute to national development.
“This is about service. We need leaders of substance who can generate sound policy and ensure improved service delivery, for all Ugandans, not just NRM members,” he said.
“CEC is the engine of the country, and we invite every Ugandan to take an interest,” he added.
He also highlighted his impact in reducing Opposition influence across his region, especially in the districts of Kasese to Rukungiri, and in urban areas, citing improvements in infrastructure, electricity access, and wealth creation initiatives as tangible outcomes of his tenure.
At the same briefing, central region NRM vice-chairperson Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi and Party women's league chairperson Lydia Wanyoto Mutende also declared their intentions to retain their positions ahead of the party’s national conference scheduled for August 27–28, 2025, at Kololo Independence Grounds.
All CEC aspirants are expected to campaign at the conference, where delegates will cast their votes.
In preparation, Baryomunsi, Kiwanda and Wanyoto have started consultations with delegates across various districts.
Kiwanda appealed to delegates to grant him another term, describing his tenure as part of a “rebuilding mission.”
He emphasised mobilisation increased engagement with cultural institutions, and grassroots mobilisation as key strategies for countering opposition narratives.
Wanyoto pointed to initiatives like the Parish Development Model, which allocates 30% of its resources to women, as evidence that CEC policies directly impact millions of Ugandan households, especially women.