OPINION!! Respect Our Elders, Reject Fake News: A Call to Ugandan Youth as We Head into the Youth Polls

By Brian Keitira
In the vibrant arena of Ugandan politics, where the dreams of a generation hang in the balance, the youth stand as the unyielding architects of our nation’s future. As the NRM National Youth elections approach on Thursday, September 18, 2025, a shadow of deceit threatens to cloud our judgment. I speak directly to you, the young trailblazers of Uganda: disregard the baseless whispers and fabricated scandals peddled by some bloggers purportedly backing one of the National Youth MP contestants.

These malicious tales, alleging that high-ranking government officials are commanding Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) to favor certain candidates, are nothing but a desperate ploy to intimidate delegates. Treat them with contempt, like chaff scattered by the wind, unworthy of your time or trust. As the timeless proverb says, “What scratches you doesn’t make fire.” These allegations are mere scratches on the skin of truth, designed to inflame without igniting real change.

Which young person can be coerced into voting against their ideal candidate? Are RDCs now NRM returning officers? These allegations are laughable, unfounded, and unsupported by evidence. They reek of the kind of political theater we’ve seen too often in the National Unity Platform (NUP) camps.

As Nelson Mandela once wisely noted, “No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love.” These smears teach division, but we, the youth, can choose unity over the poison of lies. Our vision is bigger: ensuring President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni wins the 2026 general elections with over 80% of the popular vote.

Let’s examine the enemies of the young people. Embroiled in a web of blackmail and character assassination, their credibility has evaporated. Reports reveal webs of lies and propaganda circulated not for policy debate but to tarnish rivals’ reputations and high-ranking government members. This is a classic case of sour grapes from those trailing in the race.

This isn’t leadership; it’s a low blow. These online bloggers and social media warriors have squandered their moral high ground, turning what should be a contest of ideas into a circus of mudslinging. Who can trust a camp that prioritizes whispers in the dark over walking in the light? As the Bible reminds us in Proverbs 12:20, “Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.”

With just two days left to voting, it’s high time some contenders pivot from gutter politics. Let them channel their energy into genuine mobilization: door-to-door conversations, youth forums, healthy media engagements, and visions that inspire rather than intimidate. Smearing names doesn’t win votes; it erodes the soul of our democracy.

Contrast this chaos with the credibility Hon. Milly Babirye Babalanda and Hajj Farouk Kirunda whose names are being tainted by some youth leaders that they have ordered all RDC’s to rally behind some candidates at the expense of others. What a pity! How can you a drag the Office of the President into such nonsense. These two leaders embody integrity, selfless service, and tangible progress.

Faruk Kirunda, the Deputy Presidential Press Secretary, has built bridges, not burned them. Hon. Milly Babalanda, the Minister for the Presidency, has prioritized God and the nation, delivering success stories in the Parish Development Model (PDM) especially in Busoga.

As the African proverb says, “A single bracelet does not jingle.” Babalanda’s impact comes from collective harmony, not solo sabotage. Together with Kirunda, they exemplify the integrity our youth elections demand: leaders who serve with clean hands and pure hearts.

Dear youth, as you head to the polls, choose wisely. Reject the vultures of fake news and disrespecting our elders. Vote for progress, unity, and a Uganda where the young are kings and queens of their destiny. As Marcus Garvey once said, “The greatest glory of a free-born people is to transmit that freedom to their children.” Transmit it- untainted, unbroken, and bold. Forward ever, youth of Uganda.

Long live Uganda, Long live NRM, Long live President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

The writer is a senior cadre and works with the Office of the National Chairman-NRM.