KAMPALA, Uganda — Former Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) Secretary General David Kabanda has spoken publicly about the circumstances surrounding his departure from one of Uganda’s fastest-growing political movements, making explosive allegations about internal rivalries, financial interests, and threats to his personal safety.
Kabanda’s departure from the influential position has triggered intense debate within political circles, exposing tensions that had largely remained behind closed doors. His comments have also raised fresh questions about the internal dynamics of the Patriotic League of Uganda, a movement closely associated with Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
In remarks that quickly attracted national attention, Kabanda claimed that certain individuals within the organization viewed him as an obstacle to their ambitions and financial interests.
According to the Kasambya County Member of Parliament, some people had become frustrated because they believed he was blocking their access to influential figures within the movement.
Kabanda alleged that individuals seeking personal gain had created an environment where influence and proximity to powerful leaders were increasingly being treated as commodities.
He suggested that some actors had attempted to exploit the movement's growing popularity for personal enrichment, leading to tensions among members competing for access and influence.
Most strikingly, Kabanda expressed fears about his own security, claiming that some individuals had become so hostile that they could potentially harm him.
While he did not identify any specific people, the allegations have generated widespread discussion and speculation about the extent of internal disagreements within the organization.
The controversy comes at a time when the Patriotic League of Uganda is expanding its footprint across the country's political landscape.
Originally established as a civic mobilization platform, the movement has grown rapidly over recent years and now includes a significant number of influential politicians, government officials, business leaders, and grassroots mobilizers.
Its close association with Gen. Muhoozi has also elevated its profile, making developments within the organization a matter of national political interest.
Following Kabanda’s departure, Gen. Muhoozi announced an immediate restructuring of the movement’s leadership and confirmed the appointment of Tingey County Member of Parliament Fadil Twaha as the new Secretary General.
The announcement formed part of a broader reorganization that saw several senior political figures brought into key positions within the movement's leadership structure.
In a statement explaining the changes, Gen. Muhoozi described the restructuring as a natural evolution intended to prepare the organization for new challenges.
He emphasized that the previous leadership team had achieved important objectives and that a fresh team was needed to guide the next phase of the movement's growth.
Political observers say the reshuffle reflects the increasing significance of the PLU within Uganda’s broader political environment.
The organization has become an influential platform for mobilization and political engagement, particularly among young people and supporters of Gen. Muhoozi.
Its activities have often generated discussion about its future role in national politics and its relationship with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The latest leadership changes appear to further strengthen ties between the movement and senior government officials.
Several prominent leaders were appointed to new positions during the restructuring, expanding the organization's reach and influence.
Supporters argue that the appointments will help improve coordination between the movement and government institutions.
Critics, however, contend that the growing overlap between political office holders and movement leadership raises questions about the distinction between civic organizations and state structures.
Kabanda’s departure has added another layer to those debates.
Some analysts believe his comments reveal the challenges that often emerge when rapidly growing political organizations attract individuals with differing interests and expectations.
As movements expand and gain influence, competition for leadership positions and access to decision-makers can intensify, creating internal tensions that are difficult to manage.
Despite his criticism, Kabanda has not completely severed ties with the organization.
Reports indicate that while he lost his position as Secretary General, he remains a member of the broader leadership structure.
This has led some observers to speculate that efforts may be underway to preserve unity and prevent a deeper split within the movement.
Gen. Muhoozi has also appeared keen to project stability in the aftermath of the controversy.
He directed officials to organize a formal handover process and encouraged members to remain focused on the organization's goals and objectives.
His public statements emphasized unity, discipline, and continued support for national development initiatives.
The developments have attracted considerable public attention because of the growing influence of both the PLU and its leadership.
As Uganda's political environment continues to evolve, organizations like the PLU are increasingly viewed as important players in shaping public debate and political mobilization.
For many observers, the real significance of Kabanda’s remarks extends beyond his personal departure.
The allegations highlight broader questions about transparency, accountability, and internal governance within political movements.
They also underscore the challenges leaders face when managing organizations that combine political ambition, public influence, and growing memberships.
Whether Kabanda’s concerns will lead to further revelations remains unclear.
For now, the movement's leadership appears determined to move forward with its restructuring plans while presenting a united front.
However, the former Secretary General’s claims have ensured that attention will remain focused on the organization and its internal affairs for the foreseeable future.