Gen Moses Ali, Uganda’s Second Deputy Prime Minister, has chosen a creative way to campaign for the 2026 parliamentary elections. At 86 years old and facing health challenges, he is not taking part in the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s joint campaign activities. Instead, Gen Moses Ali has informed the NRM Electoral Commission of his decision. He is using music to connect with voters in Adjumani District.
Following a controversial nomination, the General began his campaign quietly but firmly. He has won almost every election since 2001, except in 2006. He aims to return to Parliament while limiting his public appearances. During his nomination, Gen Moses Ali stayed seated in his car. This signals that his team will handle most campaign activities while he remains behind the scenes.
Music plays a key role in this strategy. Recognizing the cultural importance of music in the Madi Sub-region, his campaign hired local artist Stephen Anyovi Songa from Kombo Crew. Songa crafts songs that celebrate the General’s work and speak to the hopes of the community. These songs praise projects such as the Laropi Bridge, electricity expansion, and a nearly completed water project. They build emotional connections and make political messages memorable.
One song states, “Even if you can’t talk or speak, we just need to hear that deep roar from you like the sound of a lion in the wild.” This reflects the respect Gen Moses Ali commands locally. The lyrics also thank him for fulfilling promises like the Atiak–Laropi road and electricity access. They urge voters to support his continued service.
This musical approach suits the General well. Due to speaking difficulties and limited stamina, he cannot spend long hours on the campaign trail. Furthermore, music appeals strongly to young voters. They make up most of Adjumani’s population. According to the 2024 census, the district has nearly 298,000 people, but only about 25,000 are elderly. Young voters respond particularly well to messages delivered through music.
A local voter, Salima Adania, noted that the music “not only entertains but educates.” She added that through this strategy, Gen Moses Ali is building a narrative of hope and progress that deeply connects with the community. The songs cover key issues such as the Apaa land conflict and plans to elevate Adjumani to municipality status with improved water services.
The NRM primaries will be highly competitive. Among the contenders for the NRM flag are Nixon Owole, a former Resident District Commissioner; Moses Kibrai, a former Chief Finance Officer; and Santos Adrawa. Age remains a major topic. Adrawa commented, “You cannot replace an old person with another old person.” Despite this, Gen Moses Ali’s long record and local ties give him an edge.
Owole highlights his experience as District Chairperson and RDC. He asserts he is the strongest candidate. Meanwhile, Kibrai emphasizes peace and economic growth through local Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (Saccos). Even with debates around age, Gen Moses Ali maintains a strong position due to his legacy.
Born on April 5, 1939, Gen Moses Ali is a significant figure in Uganda’s history. He joined the army young and trained abroad. He rose quickly from Second Lieutenant in 1969 to Brigadier by 1974. Serving under Idi Amin as Minister of Interior and Finance, he later fell out with the regime. After Amin’s fall in 1979, Ali went into exile and led the Uganda National Rescue Front (UNRF) rebel group during the 1980s.
In 1986, reconciliation with President Museveni allowed him to integrate his fighters into the national army. He earned the rank of Major General. Promotions followed: Lieutenant General in 2003 and General in 2012. Though retired from active military service, Gen Moses Ali remains politically active. He holds various Cabinet roles and led peace talks with the UNRF II rebels in 2002.
The 2026 campaign may be one of Gen Moses Ali’s most unusual but effective. By using music and delegating responsibilities, he works around his age and health challenges. His ability to connect with young voters through music could secure his seat in Parliament once again.
Read: Age Debate in Ugandan Politics Heats Up Ahead of 2026 Polls
