PLU’s top leadership, headed by Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba (L) welcoming new members
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) has unveiled a new system of assigning unique identification numbers to its top leaders, in a move widely seen as an effort to formalise hierarchy and reinforce internal structure. The development comes at a time when the organisation is grappling with public disagreements among some of its prominent members.
In a statement issued on March 20, 2026, PLU spokesperson Andrew Mwenda explained that the numbering system is rooted in recognising both the historical contributions and seniority of members within the organisation.
“The chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued the following numbers to PLU members. These numbers reflect the historic role played by each member in the founding of the organisation and also their seniority,” Mwenda said.
Under the newly introduced structure, Muhoozi Kainerugaba holds the top position as PO 001, followed by Mwenda himself as PO 002. Other senior members include Michael Nuwagira, also known as Toyota (PO 003), Edwin Karugire (PO 004), and Daudi Kabanda (PO 005).
The list continues with Balaam Barugahare (PO 006), Michael Mawanda (PO 007), Lillian Aber (PO 008), the late Cedric Babu (PO 009), Frank Gashumba (PO 010), Henry Basaliza (PO 011), and Fadil Twala (PO 012). Mwenda noted that the system currently applies to members of the Central Committee, with plans to extend it to other members in the future.
The timing of the announcement has drawn attention, as it coincides with a public fallout between Frank Gashumba and Daudi Kabanda. Their disagreements, which have been widely aired in the media and across social platforms, have raised concerns about unity within the organisation.
Political observers argue that PLU’s approach closely mirrors earlier practices within the National Resistance Army (NRA), which later evolved into the National Resistance Movement (NRM). During the liberation struggle led by Yoweri Museveni, members were assigned numbers based on their role and seniority, a system that later became a symbol of influence and historical significance within the ruling movement.
By adopting a similar structure, PLU appears to be positioning itself along established political traditions in Uganda, using numbering as a tool to recognise founding members and entrench authority. Analysts suggest that this could help streamline decision-making and clarify leadership roles within the organisation.
Although Mwenda did not directly address the internal disputes, the release of the numbered list is widely interpreted as an attempt to restore order and discipline. As PLU continues to evolve, the numbering system may play a critical role in shaping its identity and managing internal cohesion.
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