NRM CEC national entrepreneurs league elections reflect regional imbalance

The recently concluded National Resistance Movement (NRM) Party Central Executive Committee elections, especially for the entrepreneurs league, have left many cadres wondering whether there is any iota of regional balancing when elective positions are up for grabs.

Although the elections for the National Chair were suspended amidst widespread voter bribery, a later consensus meeting was organised by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, where the incumbent, Dr Hassan Basajjabalaba, was retained unopposed.

However, Basajjabalaba is from Western Uganda, and apart from regional Vice Chairpersons, all the other National positions were taken by candidates from Western Uganda. Secretary, Treasurer and Publicity positions were all taken by persons from Western Uganda.

These leaves, Central, Eastern, Northern and West Nile completely under-represented, regions that had overwhelmingly shown support towards Hon. Sanjay Tanna’s candidature.

Now that the elections are done and dusted, what cards does the Party Chairman, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni have to ensure that regional balance can be seen in the Party’s top decision body?

This pertinent question could have easily been answered if Sanjay Tanna had been incorporated into CEC, especially through the National Entrepreneurs League.

Tanna’s potential elevation would have first addressed the CEC’s regional skew, which heavily favours Western Uganda under Museveni’s long tenure.

As a native of Tororo in the East, Tanna embodies the underrepresented Eastern voice, where economic disparities and political marginalisation fuel discontent.

His inclusion could have balanced the committee’s composition—currently dominated by figures like Museveni (Western) and Al Hajji Moses Kigongo (Central)—promoting equitable resource allocation and policy-making that resonates across regions.

Equally compelling is Tanna’s role as a bridge for Uganda’s Asian population, a minority group that drives the economy yet remains politically underrepresented.

Despite comprising less than 1% of the populace, Asians contribute an estimated 60-65% of tax revenues, powering sectors like manufacturing (over 900 factories), trade, agro-processing, banking, sugar, and real estate.

Ultimately, Tanna’s exclusion perpetuates a CEC that risks alienating key demographics. His inclusion would signal inclusivity, boost economic innovation, and solidify NRM’s base through balanced representation.

In a nation where commerce intersects politics, overlooking such a figure undermines sustainable progress.