KAMPALA, Uganda — Phillip Kakuru, a senior presidential adviser on trade and investment, has been nominated as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Entrepreneurs League Central Executive Committee (CEC) chairperson. The nomination marks a key moment in the ruling party’s internal elections.
Dr. Tanga Odoi, chairman of the NRM Electoral Commission, administered the nomination at the commission’s headquarters. Hundreds of Kakuru’s supporters escorted him to the venue, a sign of his growing grassroots support.
In his acceptance statement, Kakuru emphasized his commitment to broader economic representation.
“During my travels across northern Uganda, I heard the voices of entrepreneurs, youth and ordinary citizens who are yearning for change,” Kakuru said, adding that he aims to amplify those calls at the national level. “They’ve entrusted me with their hopes and dreams for a better future. As I accept this nomination, I pledge to amplify their voices and champion their causes.”
Kakuru’s platform focuses on job creation, problem-solving and community uplift. He reinforced these themes with his mantra: “Our power lies in ideas, not in envelopes. We’re tired of being bought; we want to build Uganda.” He described this as “a war for values and ideological orientation” against money-driven politics.
Delegates from the Elgon, Acholi and other sub-regions have also tasked him with addressing issues such as high taxes and unfulfilled government promises. Kakuru assured attendees he would address these grievances in his new leadership role.
Earlier this month, Kakuru launched the NRM Entrepreneurs League Members SACCO (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization) to support grassroots empowerment. The SACCO started with more than UGX 100 million (about $26,000 USD) and aims to increase access to affordable credit and promote saving among small business owners.
“This SACCO is not just for savings; it is a launchpad for every small business owner and innovator committed to the NRM economic agenda,” Kakuru said at the June 13 launch at Maya Nature Resort in Wakiso District. He also plans to expand SACCO offices nationwide, starting with Bugolobi in Kampala.
At the launch, ONC Manager Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo highlighted the initiative’s importance, noting challenges in its establishment, including resistance from special interests. “There are leaders who’ve abandoned traders … This SACCO will be your rescue rope,” she said.
Kakuru concluded the nomination ceremony by thanking Ugandans for their support and trust. He promised to “work tirelessly to ensure that the NRM Entrepreneurs League becomes a beacon of hope and prosperity for all.”
As he campaigns, Kakuru has strong regional support. Provisional results show him leading in the West Nile (90%), Western (81%), Central (60%) and Northern (40%) regions, ahead of rivals including Hajji Hassan Basajjabalaba and Dr. Robert Rukari.
As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, Kakuru’s candidacy represents a potential ideological shift within the NRM, prioritizing ideas, integrity and economic empowerment over traditional patronage.