Cash, Power and Allegations of Mismanagement: Questions Mount Over NRM Secretariat Finances

Concerns are reportedly growing within Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) amid allegations of financial mismanagement, inflated expenditure, and internal tensions linked to preparations for the party’s delegates conference.

Multiple party insiders have told this publication that anxiety and frustration are spreading within the Secretariat, following claims that funds allocated for party operations may have been improperly managed. The allegations, which remain unverified, have raised fresh questions about transparency and accountability within the governing party.

The NRM, which receives approximately UGX 40 billion annually in public funding, has periodically faced scrutiny over its financial administration. Critics within the party now allege that, beyond what they describe as a large administrative wage bill, substantial sums may have been lost through questionable spending and procurement practices.

Particular attention has focused on the organisation of the party’s delegates conference. Several sources allege that the number of delegates was deliberately overstated, resulting in increased costs for transport, accommodation, meals, allowances and other logistical expenses. According to insiders, the alleged inflation of figures may have created opportunities for significant financial leakages.

At the centre of the controversy is a senior Secretariat official, described by some party members as having consolidated significant control over financial decision-making. Critics allege that established party structures were sidelined, while relatives and close associates were given influential roles in handling sensitive operations.

Sources familiar with internal discussions claim that concerns raised by senior party members over these arrangements were not acted upon. One individual alleged that those who questioned the process were told that “orders come from above,” suggesting that the official in question may enjoy protection due to perceived connections to influential figures within Uganda’s First Family. These claims could not be independently verified.

Further allegations involve the movement of cash from party offices under tight security. Several sources claimed that individuals linked to the Secretariat were seen transporting sacks believed to contain money to undisclosed locations. No independent evidence has yet emerged to substantiate these assertions.

Questions have also been raised over the apparent accumulation of wealth by individuals said to be connected to the conference process. Some sources allege that high-value properties in Kampala, Wakiso, and parts of eastern Uganda may have been acquired through proxies or trusted associates. Ownership records relating to these claims had not been independently confirmed at the time of publication.

According to several accounts, the official at the centre of the allegations has reportedly expressed confidence in their long-term financial security, even outside formal employment. Sources also claim the individual is frequently seen travelling in luxury vehicles while carrying substantial amounts of cash. These allegations remain unproven.

Senior party members are said to be increasingly concerned about what they describe as a culture of intimidation, impunity and unchecked authority within the Secretariat. Some fear that the controversy—whether ultimately substantiated or not—could damage the NRM’s public image ahead of key political activities.

Efforts to obtain official comment from NRM officials were ongoing at the time of publication.

This publication continues to investigate the allegations surrounding the party’s financial management, procurement processes and reported delegate figures. Further reporting will examine the alleged money trail, internal power struggles and claims regarding property acquisitions linked to individuals under scrutiny.