The National Resistance Movement (NRM) party has on Wednesday initiated a nationwide update of its membership register and registration of new members in preparation for the 2026 general election. In Apac District, the process encountered difficulties as several individuals were unable to register due to the absence of their National Identity cards.
Tonny Engena, the NRM registrar at Abuti ward, observed that many potential members were eager to join the party but were turned away due to lacking National IDs. He suggested that party officials collaborate with NIRA to assist those without IDs.
RDC George Abudul cautioned money lenders to promptly return members’ IDs, emphasizing that possession of the National ID is a requirement for party registration. He warned against the use of National IDs as collateral, as it hampers the registration process and access to government services.
“… should you be holding somebody’s national ID especially with the people of Apac, before we come to you, please take back the National ID because you can not deny somebody opportunity to access services of Government simply because you want to give our your Loan…” George Abdul cautioned money lenders
Apac, historically dominated by the UPC party, faces a shift with NRM’s efforts to mobilize support. Talip Okabo, NRM District Chairperson, encouraged prospective participants to engage in NRM elections to avoid disruptions during primaries.
Moses Angundru, the NRM Zonal Coordinator for Update and Registration, promised to collaborate with NIRA to assist individuals without National IDs. He mentioned that students in the 16 to 18 age group can use their learner’s identification numbers from schools for registration.
“… for students who are going to vote in the age brackets of 16 to 18, what they provide is learner`s identification Number in schools…” says Moses Angundru
Daniel Eyit, NRM publicity Secretary in Apac, stressed the importance of early mobilization to challenge the UPC’s stronghold in the district. He expressed concern that despite perceived support on the ground, mobilization efforts were lacking.
“… we always believe that we have people on the ground, but when time for elections comes, you go to the ground and don`t get those people. As per now what we are seeing on the ground is that people are not well mobilized and yet the process is moving for only five days…” says Daniel Eyit.
The nationwide register update commenced on Wednesday and will last for five days, except in Dokolo, where a by-election is scheduled for March 21, 2024.
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