A rift is emerging among top leaders of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), a civic organization founded by the Chief of Defense Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The disagreement centers on the jurisdiction of power and internal roles within the organization.
Tensions flared after Michael Nuwagira Toyota, the National Vice Chairman of PLU, cautioned the Director of Mobilization, Michael Mawanda, to respect the boundaries of his office and avoid overstepping his mandate.
This warning came in response to Mawanda’s alleged endorsement of Hellen Adeke Adoa, a prospective parliamentary candidate aiming to unseat Speaker Anitah Annet Among in Bukedea during the 2026 general elections.
Mawanda reportedly endorsed Adeke during her visit to the PLU Secretariat, assuring her that General Kainerugaba would support a new Parliament without Speaker Among. This alleged endorsement stirred backlash, with Toyota warning that such actions could create confusion both within PLU and among the public.
“To avoid unnecessary speculation, it is imperative to clearly distinguish between issues that fall under the Director of Mobilization’s purview and those that do not,” Toyota said.
He added, “Clarifying these roles is essential for addressing matters efficiently and preventing unwarranted discourse. As the Banyankore say: Ngu kwogambira owanyu kwehitsya akenda yayanga oza omubasheki Osheka” loosely translated as “It’s better to advise your own before outsiders laugh at you.”
Toyota went on to express the League’s unwavering support and appreciation for Speaker Anitah Among, praising her contributions to the nation.
“We have established a strong relationship with her and value her association with PLU and our Chairman. Let me categorically state that we are not opposed to Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, and we reaffirm our commitment to maintaining a positive and collaborative relationship with her,” he emphasized.
He further urged Mawanda to avoid linking his personal associations particularly with Adeke to the PLU as an institution.
In response, Mawanda stood his ground, reminding Toyota that all PLU Directors operate under the guidance of the General Secretary.
“I therefore urge everyone to stay in their respective lanes. At the PLU Secretariat, we meet and engage with anyone who approaches us, regardless of their political affiliations. PLU is an inclusive civil organization that welcomes all individuals who share and support its objectives,” Mawanda stated.
