By Spy Uganda
Members of Parliament, Central Executive Committee (CEC) officials, and a section of independent legislators have begun a week-long leadership retreat at the Kyankwanzi National Leadership Institute, aimed at sharpening policy direction ahead of the 12th Parliament.
The delegation departed from the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds today, where participants gathered, registered, and boarded buses for the journey. The retreat brings together both experienced leaders and first-time legislators for orientation and planning.
Among those attending is Norbert Mao, the President General of the Democratic Party and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
Speaking before departure, Richard Todwong, the NRM Secretary General, said the retreat is designed to align leaders with the party’s manifesto and national priorities. “We are moving to align the strategic leadership of the country towards those basic goals,” he said.
First-time MPs described the retreat as an opportunity to understand governance and contribute to national planning. Patrick Wakida said he hoped to learn more about the NRM, while Rukiga MP-elect Patrick Katabazi called it a chance to “plan for the country.”
Mao underscored the significance of the gathering, saying the 12th Parliament will shape Uganda’s future. Independent MP-elect Hassan Mukiibi Sserujongi said he intends to use the platform to advocate for local priorities, including the long-delayed Ssembabule–Mateete road.
Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua said the retreat is critical in preparing new legislators and familiarising them with the National Development Plan IV.
Held under the theme “Aligning the NRM leadership towards protecting the gains and making the qualitative leap towards a higher middle-income status society,” the programme will cover governance, national security, regional geopolitics, and political economy, with focus on the party’s “Musevenomics” approach. Other areas include infrastructure, agriculture, and Parliament’s legislative role.
The retreat will be officially opened and closed by Yoweri Museveni, who also serves as NRM National Chairman.
Party officials say the gathering is a key platform for shaping legislative priorities and strengthening cohesion within the ruling party.
