Inside Uganda's political landscape, amidst the anticipation and fervor surrounding the upcoming 2026 general elections, the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) emerges as another political grouping, setting itself distinctively away from known political groupings that are formerly registered as Political parties.
Led by its national coordinator, Hon. David Kabanda, PLU stands firm in its assertion that it is not a political entity but rather a civic organization dedicated to instilling a sense of patriotism among Ugandans.
In a recent statement, Kabanda vehemently denied rumors of PLU's intentions to form a political party asserting that "We are not into politics. We are promoting patriotism amongst our people." This clarification comes amidst speculation fueled by PLU's extensive outreach efforts, including barazas and movements held across the country.
Despite widespread anticipation for PLU to unveil a political agenda, Kabanda remains steadfast in the organization's primary objective: educating Ugandans on patriotism. He revealed that PLU has received requests from six sub-regions for training sessions on patriotism, emphasizing that regions must be prepared to fund and accommodate the organization if they wish to receive their teachings.
Kabanda's stance underscores PLU's commitment to remaining apolitical while fulfilling its civic duty. However, PLU's influence extends beyond its educational endeavors. Bukoto South MP, Twaha Kagabo, expressed support for PLU's mission, acknowledging the role of politicians in mobilizing communities for PLU's initiatives. Kagabo emphasized the need to bridge political divides and unite communities under the banner of patriotism.
"The challenges that our communities are facing have been brought about by political divide," Kagabo remarked. "And because of that, we have to engage politicians to help and lure these people to come and receive the message."
Genesis of PLU
At an event in the Kampala suburb of Naguru on February 7th, an assorted group of self-proclaimed MK supporters launched an entity called the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), which they said is the successor to the defunct MK Movement.
Supporters of Gen. Muhoozi have for about two years been organising events across to the country to pledge allegiance to his participation in the 2026 presidential.
In an odd coincidence, on the same day that the Patriotic League was launched to replace the MK Movement, a re-appointed Electoral Commission was being inaugurated in a sign that the run-up to the 2026 general elections was heating up. But at the low key event (compared to other MK Movement events) in Naguru where the Patriotic League was launched, it remained unclear whether Gen. Muhoozi would be on the presidential elections ballot in 2026.
Gen. Muhoozi was not at the event and was reported to be out of the country. And several MK Movement stalwarts who The Independent spoke to said they were, matter of fact, unaware of the developments around the new Patriotic League, its launch or its agenda.
