PLU laments members leaving over financial expectations

The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) is facing a challenge as members who joined with the expectation of financial rewards are now leaving the organization. Michael Mawanda, PLU’s Director for Mobilisation, explained that individuals seeking monetary benefits have departed, realizing that political engagement with PLU does not offer direct financial returns.

Mawanda emphasized that the PLU desires supporters to be driven by genuine commitment to its political agenda, rather than the pursuit of financial incentives. The organization is advocating for a “new Uganda” where leadership is determined by capability and public support, not by the financial clout of candidates or their backers.

“We are fighting commercialisation of politics. We want the level of politics to be levelled, that even those people who are able leaders can be able to compete without money,” Mawanda stated. He further elaborated that the current trend makes it difficult for competent leaders to thrive if they lack the substantial funds typically required for political campaigns.

The PLU is encouraging its supporters to engage in productive economic activities while backing the organization’s political objectives, viewing political mobilization as a matter of conviction, not a source of income.

Mawanda pointed to the election of the Speaker of Parliament as an instance where PLU successfully mobilized support without financial inducements, expressing a desire for this model to be replicated at all leadership levels across the country.

These statements were made during a PLU mobilization drive aimed at securing formal endorsements for the presidential bid of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, scheduled for the 2031 elections. PLU is circulating endorsement books for supporters to register their backing for Kainerugaba. The organization aims to collect 20 million signatures by next August or September.

Mobilization efforts are underway across various regions, with specific districts targeting completion of endorsements in the coming months. The campaign is also focusing on issues such as development, service delivery, and the fight against corruption, encouraging communities to monitor government programs and report shortcomings.

Source: Nile Post