Unique Role of ONC: A Deep State Initiative Operating Under the President's Authority

By Buyinza Adam Luzindana

Subsistence Farmer

Kayunga District

In the political landscape of Uganda, a lesser-known entity has been making waves due to its distinct role and unique organizational structure. The Office of the National Chairman (ONC) has gained attention for its unconventional operating procedures and the influential figure who oversees it, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. While ordinary political mobilizers within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) may find ONC's operations complex, it is an intriguing testament to the President's authority.

ONC's powers stem directly from President Museveni, who holds the positions of both Head of State and NRM National Chairman. Functioning as a special purpose vehicle, ONC is entrusted with specific assignments and tasks, guided solely by the President. Notably, ONC's funding is provided by the state itself, indicating its elevated status beyond the financial realm of the NRM party.

Unlike other political entities, ONC does not adhere to the framework set by the Political Parties and Organizations Act, thus placing it outside the jurisdiction of the Electoral Commission. It operates independently, focusing on targeted mobilization and community-based initiatives as directed by the Head of State. This unique approach highlights ONC's role as a Statecraft tool, designed to serve the President's objectives beyond the traditional confines of party politics.

The intricate relationship between ONC and the NRM party structures is a defining feature of this entity. While ONC's activities do not impinge upon the responsibilities of the NRM Secretariat, it also doesn't bear any affiliation with the NRM party. This separation underscores the clear distinction between the roles and functions of ONC, operating under the direct authority of President Museveni, and the established mechanisms of the NRM party.

Questions regarding accountability and oversight arise when examining ONC's position. ONC's exclusivity is evident in its financial management, as even high-ranking members within the NRM party may lack insight into the specifics of ONC's expenditures. This autonomy underscores the fact that ONC is answerable to the Head of State rather than the NRM National Chairman.

In conclusion, the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) in Uganda stands as a remarkable example of the President's distinct authority and strategic statecraft. Its role as a deep state initiative, directly managed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, showcases the complexities of Uganda's political landscape. While ONC's operations may be intricate, its distinctiveness remains a testament to the power dynamics that shape the country's political endeavors.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author, Buyinza Adam Luzindana, and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of any organization or entity.