The National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Treasurer, Hon. Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oundo, has strongly criticized certain media reports claiming that the party intends to sell party flags to political hopefuls during the upcoming primaries from the presidential level to local village positions.
On Tuesday, 15th April, the NRM Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, released a schedule of nomination fees for individuals seeking to contest for various positions. According to the guidelines, those vying for the party’s presidential endorsement are expected to pay UGX 20 million, while parliamentary aspirants are required to pay UGX 3 million. Candidates eyeing the position of Lord Mayor must pay UGX 1.5 million. Those interested in roles such as LCV chairperson, district councillor, or division mayor will each pay UGX 1 million.
While addressing NRM District Election Officers during an orientation session held at the party’s election headquarters on Plot 13, Kyadondo, Hon. Amb. Nekesa responded to the allegations, saying, “We are not trading party flags. I am unsure what certain media outlets aim to accomplish with such claims—this is a prime example of deliberate misinformation.”
She emphasized that it is a common international standard for political leaders to contribute financially to their respective parties. “This is a practice widely observed across the globe, where political figures support party activities by contributing financially. The NRM has embraced this principle as a means of encouraging member involvement and ownership in party affairs,” Nekesa stated.
She urged critics, particularly those she labeled as detractors, to examine the operations of other political parties both within Africa and beyond.
“It is members and loyal supporters who fund party activities. During election periods, we simply require our candidates to contribute a set amount to support the party’s political engagements. For those skeptical about the practice—especially some journalists—it should be made clear that once the primaries conclude, the NRM leadership steps in to support the flag bearers by covering nomination fees and offering initial campaign resources,” she elaborated.
“We provide financial backing for their campaigns. We disburse funds to our flag bearers at various levels. So, in no shape or form are we commercializing the party flag,” Nekesa reiterated.
She further urged NRM leaders to challenge and correct the false narrative being promoted by sections of the media. “Let us counter this false impression that we are vending NRM flags—this is mere propaganda intended to discredit our reputation.”
“These are not our operating principles. This has always been our standard practice and has been followed for years. It is simply a way to motivate our leaders to support the political work of the party. Ultimately, these funds are reinvested back into supporting the very same candidates,” Nekesa concluded.
