President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised the 9.2 million Ugandans who turned up to vote in the NRM party primaries, calling it strong proof of the party’s deep grassroots support. In a letter to party members on Sunday, July 20, 2025, the President described the turnout as nearly 50% of the 18.5 million registered members, describing it as “not bad,” especially since voting took place midweek on a working day.
Museveni said the high turnout shows that the NRM remains the people’s party, rooted in real solutions and clear results. He thanked voters for closing their businesses and making time to participate, proving their commitment to the Movement.
The President credited NRM’s lasting success since 1986 to people-centered policies and government programmes that have directly improved lives. He pointed to restored national security, the elimination of diseases like polio through immunization, and economic reforms that ended shortages of everyday goods.
He also highlighted the return of over 500,000 refugees thanks to NRM’s reconciliation efforts, and praised progress in agriculture, especially in regions like Masaka, Kalangala, and Bundibugyo. Museveni shared inspiring stories of Ugandans like Nyakaana and Joseph Ijala, who have improved their lives through government programmes.
He emphasized the growing impact of the Parish Development Model (PDM), saying many families are already seeing real change after receiving support. The President encouraged NRM leaders to stay close to the people, deliver services effectively, and prepare for a big win in the 2026 elections.
Museveni warned against division, selfishness, or abandoning NRM’s founding values of patriotism, discipline, and service. “Our strength lies in unity,” he said. “Let’s focus on mobilizing, delivering, and winning together.”
He ended by urging all party flag bearers and leaders to return to the grassroots, listen to the people, and ensure that programmes like PDM, Emyooga, and youth skilling benefit those who need them most.
