“Tanga Must Go” – Youth delegates protest Collins Tanga’s election as NRM Youth Chair

Kololo, Kampala: A section of NRM Youth League delegates erupted in protest on Thursday afternoon, shortly after President Museveni left Kololo, chanting “Tanga must go” as they demanded the annulment of Collins Tanga’s disputed election as Youth League National Chairperson.

The demonstrators, largely supporters of runner-up Kiconco Brenda, called for the disputed electoral outcome to be overturned and for Kiconco to be recognized as their duly elected leader.

The chants echoed across the pavilion, highlighting lingering discontent over allegations of voter manipulation and undue influence by Dr. Tanga Odoi, the NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, to favour his son, Collins Tanga.

“This election was rigged. We will not accept leaders who buy their way into power,” shouted one youth delegate, who identified herself as Nakato from Wakiso District. “We want fairness and our voices respected.”

Kiconco Brenda, speaking to DailyExpress, on the sidelines of the protest, appealed for calm while reiterating her call for justice. “I deeply thank everyone who, despite massive voter bribery and intimidation, stood by me. The gross abuse of office witnessed throughout this election is truly unacceptable. We cherish our party, but if this oppression persists, what future are we then securing?” she asked.

Earlier in the day, President Museveni, in his capacity as NRM National Chairman, had addressed the initial protests that broke out during the conference when SG Richard Todwong mentioned Collins Tanga as part of the new NRM CEC.

While he acknowledged the objections raised by youth delegates, Mr Museveni clarified that the election of Tanga as NRM Youth League Chairperson could only be challenged through the party’s tribunal.

“I have noted the objection of the youth, but when I checked with lawyers, once somebody is announced, they can only be removed by petition,” Museveni told delegates. “The resolution can be amended to reflect that the election of the youth leader is contested and is now before the tribunal.”

The ongoing dispute has placed the Youth League chairmanship, a critical role representing Uganda’s largest demographic, under scrutiny.

The tribunal is now expected to handle the petition filed by Kiconco on Wednesday, August 27, and it will determine the legitimacy of Collins Tanga’s election or the necessity to overturn his election in favour of Kiconco, or even the possibility of recommending a fresh poll.