PLU warns mobilisers against misconduct during endorsement exercise

The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) has cautioned its mobilisers, coordinators and supporters against engaging in unlawful conduct during the ongoing nationwide campaign to endorse the organisation's chairman, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for future political processes.

Addressing a press conference at the PLU headquarters in Naguru on Wednesday, Henry Basaliza Mutegeki, the deputy director for mobilisation, said the organisation would not tolerate individuals who use its name to intimidate the public, engage in misconduct or shield unlawful activities.

"The name of the Patriotic League of Uganda must never be used as a cover for wrongdoing," he said, emphasizing that the movement's values are anchored on patriotism, discipline, unity, integrity, service and respect for the rule of law.

PLU is intensifying a countrywide mobilisation drive aimed at collecting signatures and registering supporters to endorse Kainerugaba, the current Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).

"Political mobilisation, organisation and affiliation do not give anyone immunity from the law. Anyone who claims to work in the name of PLU while engaging in unlawful activities is acting outside the principles and values of our organization," said Basaliza.

His ​warning came barely a week after events promoter Norbert Twizere (Norbert Events) was arrested and remanded to Luzira Prison over alleged financial crimes.

Twizere caused significant public backlash when he appeared in court handcuffed while wearing a shirt featuring the image of PLU chairman Kainerugaba.

In response, PLU media head Frank Mwesigye quickly distanced the organisation from him, clarifying that Twizere does not hold an official position within the PLU despite his self-proclamation.

Peaceful mobilisation

Basaliza called on mobilisers at all levels, from districts to villages, to ensure that the endorsement exercise is conducted peacefully and responsibly.

He reminded coordinators that they serve as public representatives of PLU and are expected to uphold its image while interacting with communities.

"Mobilization goes beyond collecting signatures. You are representatives of an organization whose conduct must reflect the values you profess. Mobilise peacefully, engage respectfully, act responsibly and obey the law."

He further urged members to report incidents of misconduct through established channels rather than take matters into their own hands.

Caravan launched

As part of the mobilisation campaign, the PLU has launched a nationwide endorsement caravan that will traverse different regions to support signature collection and online registration efforts.

The caravan tours are expected to make stops in Ntoroko (October 9), Adjumani (October 11), Ntungamo (October 17), Mbale (October 24) and Kikuube (October 31).

Residents have been urged to take advantage of the caravan's visits to participate in the endorsement exercise while maintaining peace and order.

"Our intention is to reach as many communities as possible and ensure that no participating community is left behind," said Basaliza.

He also appealed to coordinators and grassroots structures across the country to ensure endorsement materials already distributed are fully utilized and returned to the secretariat within the stipulated timeframe.
The endorsement campaign is one of the most ambitious mobilisation exercises undertaken by PLU, with the organisation targeting 20 million signatures in support of Kainerugaba.