Choose Quality, Not Money – Baryomunsi to NRM Delegates

Kampala – As the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) gears up for its Central Executive Committee (CEC) elections, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, has cautioned delegates against engaging in or tolerating voter bribery.

Speaking ahead of the polls, Dr. Baryomunsi who also serves as the incumbent NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda and the party’s flag bearer for Kinkizi East Constituency urged delegates to prioritize competence and integrity over financial handouts.

“Within the NRM, we condemn the practice of giving money to bribe voters. Delegates should assess candidates on the basis of their ability to serve, especially at the level of CEC, which is the party’s policy organ and think tank. You need quality people; you need the best of NRM,” he said.

He emphasized that the CEC is not just another political structure but the brain of the party, where decisions that shape the NRM’s future are made. According to him, electing leaders based on who spends the most money undermines the integrity of the process and weakens the party’s vision.

“This is not a marketplace where we vote for the highest bidder. CEC requires people who will add value to discussions, give the party direction, and strengthen policy. Candidates who think elections are a game of money are completely wrong,” Dr. Baryomunsi stressed.

The minister’s remarks come amid growing concerns over reports of vote buying in internal party contests, where some aspirants have allegedly resorted to using money to sway delegates.

Baryomunsi, who is seeking re-election as Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, positioned himself as a candidate of integrity, promising to continue championing quality leadership and guiding the party with clear vision and direction.

As delegates prepare to cast their votes, his appeal sets the stage for a debate on whether the NRM will choose leaders based on merit and values, or allow money to overshadow competence.