Buganda's Cabinet Share Sparks Discontent Among NRM Loyalists

Buganda region has secured the largest share of ministerial appointments in President Museveni’s recent cabinet reshuffle, with 21 out of 84 available slots. However, this significant number, representing 25% of the cabinet, has not appeased some ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) loyalists, who argue that the region’s political and electoral weight deserves greater recognition.

Critics and party faithful point out that while Buganda delivered considerable support to the NRM in the latest general election, the majority of these appointments are Ministers of State, carrying limited influence compared to substantive ministerial roles. Of the 30 full ministers, only four are from Buganda, raising questions about whether electoral success directly translates into senior government positions.

This situation echoes historical debates about power distribution in Uganda. While Buganda has historically held prominent positions, including Prime Minister and Vice President under Museveni’s tenure, the current cabinet composition feels unbalanced to some. Analysts suggest the appointments are more of a political balancing act than a direct reward, especially given the NRM’s performance in Buganda during the 2021 election, which saw significant gains for the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP).

Despite some NRM recovery in rural Buganda in the subsequent election, there’s a sentiment among supporters that this progress warranted more senior recognition. Some attribute the distribution to President Museveni’s strategic calculations, possibly viewing Buganda as politically divided and opting to spread key positions nationally to maintain balance. Others suggest that regions with more consistent NRM support, like Kigezi, received more prominent placements.

The reshuffle also saw the departure of veteran ministers, signaling a potential shift towards younger leadership. However, for Buganda, the perceived imbalance in cabinet representation risks deepening feelings of alienation, with appointments often seen as symbolic recognition rather than purely based on merit.

“In Uganda’s politics, people interpret the Cabinet not just as governance but as recognition,” noted Alexander Mackay Muhinda, a former LCV contestant. “When a region feels underrepresented, it creates perception problems.” The Electoral Commission’s data shows a tight race in Buganda between NUP and NRM, with each winning 13 districts. While NRM reclaimed parliamentary seats, the cabinet distribution has led to speculation that Buganda’s hopes for greater influence may now shift to parliamentary leadership and appointments in parastatals. The region remains the most populous, yet its representation in senior cabinet roles appears to have declined compared to historical trends.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)