Kampala — Joseph Mukasa Sewava, a contender for the position of NRM Vice Chairperson for the Central Region in the forthcoming Central Executive Committee (CEC) elections, has called on President Yoweri Museveni to intervene in the internal party contest by advising cabinet ministers vying for party leadership positions to step aside.
Speaking during a campaign engagement, Sewava argued that ministers currently holding government portfolios are too preoccupied with national responsibilities to dedicate sufficient time to party mobilization and grassroots engagement.
“Ministers are burdened with state duties and cannot fully commit to the mobilization efforts our party urgently needs,” Sewava said. “It’s time long-serving cadres are given the space to steer the party at the regional level.”
Sewava emphasized the importance of strengthening the NRM’s internal structures and pledged to focus on bridging the long-standing gaps between the central government and the Buganda region, should he be elected.
“One of my priorities will be to improve the relationship between Buganda and the central government. Reconciliation and unity within the region are key to our national progress,” he noted.
The Central Region Vice Chairperson position is highly contested, often drawing key figures within the ruling party. Sewava’s remarks underscore the growing debate within NRM ranks over balancing state duties with party commitments ahead of the critical CEC vote.
The Central Executive Committee is the NRM’s top decision-making organ, and its composition will play a significant role in shaping the party’s strategy ahead of the 2026 general elections.
