Mwesigye Warns Independent Politicians Against Using Museveni’s Name

Kigezi— Lt. Col. James Mwesigye, the Commissioner in charge of Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and Deputy RDCs in Western Uganda, has cautioned independent politicians against claiming endorsement from President Yoweri Museveni.

Speaking on Friday during a meeting held at Kitanga Parish, where religious leaders from all denominations had gathered to discuss issues affecting the district, Lt. Col. Mwesigye said that such claims could divide party members and weaken the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

“Independent candidates should stop saying that they are endorsed or sent by the President. This only brings confusion within the party and gives the opposition a chance to win,” he said.

Mwesigye emphasized that President Museveni will only endorse and support officially voted NRM flag bearers in all elections. He urged all party members to rally behind those who carry the party flag to maintain unity and strengthen NRM structures at the grassroots.

During the same meeting, Rev. Fr. Gaetano Batanyenda, one of the longest-serving Catholic priests in the Kabale Diocese and a well-known political analyst, expressed concern over the increasing commercialization of politics in Uganda.

Fr. Batanyenda criticized politicians who offer money in exchange for votes, describing the practice as morally wrong and spiritually corrupt.

“The Bible says people will know you by your actions. A person who buys votes or gives out money just to win an election is doing something satanic,” he said.

He urged leaders to instead support community development initiatives such as schools, churches, and vulnerable groups throughout their term — not only during political seasons.

The meeting brought together leaders from various religious denominations who discussed how faith-based institutions can collaborate with government structures to address the social and economic challenges facing the district.