Veteran members of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) took center stage at the party headquarters yesterday, picking nomination forms for various parliamentary positions.
Prominent figures included Moses Ali, Maj Gen Jim Muhwezi, Maj Bright Rwamirama, Matia Kasaija, Isaac Musumba, and Peter Lokeris, many of whom have served multiple terms in Parliament.
Several of these seasoned politicians have been in the House for over three terms, while others have moved in and out, seemingly tethered to political roles.
They reiterated familiar promises of better roads, improved health services, and empowerment for youth and women.
However, they struggled to explain why, after decades in office, these goals remain unachieved, prompting questions about the need for additional terms.
Moses Ali, a fixture in Parliament since 1996 with a break between 2006 and 2011, appeared visibly unwell. His mouth agape, he perused documents slowly, relying on handlers to guide him step by step to Dr. Tanga Odoi’s desk, much like a toddler needing support.
Despite his health, the veteran claims he has unfinished business for his constituents.
Peter Lokeris, the 78-year-old MP for Chekwii County, first elected in 1996, is also seeking re-election. His goal is to ensure his people benefit from government agriculture programs—a promise that echoes his 29-year tenure, yet highlights persistent gaps in delivery.
Isaac Musumba, a recurrent parliamentary figure, wants to return for Buzaaya County in Kamuli. He cited consolidating NRM successes, such as Universal Primary Education (UPE), Universal Secondary Education (USE), and enhanced security, as his motivation—goals tied to party achievements but still in progress after years of intermittent service.
As these long-serving NRM stalwarts vie for another term, their candidacies raise critical questions. Why, after decades, do basic issues like roads, health, and empowerment linger?
Can ailing leaders or career politicians deliver fresh results?
