Byaruhanga Barigye Unleashes Bold NRM Reform Agenda, Sends Shockwaves Through CEC Race

In a commanding interview on UBC this week, Barigye Enoch Byaruhanga, a frontrunner in the race for the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) position for Western Uganda, laid out a bold and forward-thinking blueprint that has shifted the political momentum in his panic leaving opponents in visible panic.

Barigye’s message was clear., it is time for the NRM to transform into a modern, self sustaining political force rooted in people centered reforms and long term strategic investments.

“I am here to bring people together, build consensus around meaningful ideas, and push for practical reforms that will position the NRM for generational relevance,” Barigye stated.

Among his key proposals is the establishment of permanent income generating ventures for the party projects that would not only finance NRM operations year-round but also benefit employees at the district level.

He argues that this shift will break the party’s dependency on seasonal election time funding and instead build a stable economic engine that fuels daily operations and grassroots mobilization efforts.

“We must stop operating like a campaign team and start functioning like an institution,” he declared.

Barigye also called for the construction of a permanent, well resourced party headquarters. This, he says, will symbolize the strength and stability of NRM’s future, streamline operations, and reduce reliance on rented facilities that drain party finances.

On a national level, Barigye is advocating for a new wave of affirmative action urging the party to adjust its policy to ensure that every one of Uganda’s 157 districts has guaranteed representation for women.

“As the country grows, so must our commitment to inclusive governance. Women deserve more than token slots they deserve structured space in leadership,” he added.

Unlike many candidates who base their campaigns on assumptions, Barigye emphasized that his proposals came directly from voices on the ground.

“As I moved through communities collecting signatures, people shared their frustrations and ideas. What I am presenting is their vision as much as mine,” he said.

With a clear, actionable plan and deep grassroots connection, Byaruhanga Barigye has surged ahead as the candidate to watch. His campaign is not only shaking up the CEC race but also reawakening the spirit of reform within the NRM.

Analysts say his proposals could redefine the party’s future if given the platform to leadwhile his competitors now face the difficult task of catching up with a man clearly driven by purpose, strategy, and the people.