President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has renewed the appointment of Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye as his Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs and National Coordinator of the Bazzukulu under the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), effective November 14, 2024.
The two-year contract renewal is captured in a letter from the Ministry of Public Service dated February 17, 2025.
The reappointment reaffirms Namyalo’s pivotal role in mobilizing support for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections.
“I am pleased to inform you that His Excellency the President has, in exercise of the powers vested in him under Article 172 (1)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995, and on the advice of the Public Service Commission, directed that you be offered a renewal of your appointment as Senior Presidential Advisor – Political Affairs (NRM Chairman’s Office) and Coordinator of the Bazzukulu, effective 14th November 2024,” the letter signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Catherine Bitarakwate, reads in part.
The appointment, it adds, is subject to provisions of the Constitution, the Public Service Act, the Pensions Act, and the Uganda Public Service Standing Orders, among other legal and administrative instruments.
Strategic Timing Ahead of 2026 Elections
The reappointment is viewed as a strategic political move as President Museveni sets the stage for his re-election bid. Namyalo, who has revitalized the ONC with direct community outreach and skilling initiatives, is expected to lead efforts to galvanize support nationwide, particularly among the youth.
Under her leadership, the ONC has become a hub for empowerment programs, distributing business startup kits and livelihood tools, including tailoring machines, salon equipment, welding kits, and motorcycles. These initiatives have increased her visibility and earned her support in urban and rural communities.
Power Struggles and Internal Opposition
Namyalo’s contract renewal follows months of speculation and reported lobbying from within the government and the NRM.
Several individuals, including former ONC staffer Norman Akampororo, Deputy Press Secretary Hajj Faruk Kirunda, NRM Finance Director Madina Ojale, and Head of Mobilisation Rosemary Sseninde, were reportedly eyeing the position or being fronted as potential replacements.
Also mentioned by sources familiar with the developments is that Maj. Emmanuel Kuteesa is said to be a close ally of Sseninde. These figures are believed to have been behind attempts to undermine Namyalo’s influence through coordinated media attacks and internal lobbying.
In late 2023, Namyalo publicly condemned such efforts, accusing some government and party officials of working against her poverty alleviation programmes.
She referred to them as “mafias” seeking to derail the ONC’s mission. “These mafia ministers, who hate to witness empowered Bazzukulu, have planned to parade a group of bafere beneficiaries to H.E.,” she warned at the time.
While the full authenticity of those allegations remains unclear, insiders within the party confirmed that President Museveni maintained trust in Namyalo’s loyalty, mobilisation skills, and ability to resonate with ordinary Ugandans.
ONC as a 2026 Campaign Engine
Since taking over leadership at the ONC, Namyalo has repositioned the office into a hands-on mobilisation engine. Through the “Mzee Tova Ku Main” slogan, she has driven empowerment efforts that directly align the President’s vision with grassroots communities.
Thousands of youth and women have benefited from her outreach programmes, receiving tangible tools to start small businesses and uplift household incomes.
With the campaign season approaching, Namyalo is expected to play a central role in energising the electorate and expanding the NRM’s footprint in areas previously seen as opposition strongholds.
Political observers believe her bold and energetic approach will redefine campaign mobilisation strategies in the lead-up to the 2026 elections.
A Resounding Endorsement
To her supporters, Namyalo’s reappointment is more than a continuation of service—it is a firm statement of confidence from President Museveni. It also sends a clear signal that the President remains focused on results-driven leadership and will not be swayed by internal sabotage or propaganda.
Efforts to reach Namyalo for comment were unsuccessful by press time. However, ONC spokesperson Mr. Kintu Moses could neither confirm nor deny the appointment, stating that he would first consult his superior before offering a formal response.
“Let’s wait for an official communication. As far as I know, someone who has constantly been smeared with bad press wouldn’t be easily favoured at a time like this. But again, who knows? I will check with her and get back to you,” Kintu said before ending the call.
