Kampala, Uganda — The National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED), a new political party in Uganda, is set to officially launch next Wednesday, July 23, marking its debut as a fully registered political party.
The announcement was made by party president Joseph Kabuleta, who confirmed that the Uganda Electoral Commission issued the party its certificate of registration on June 25.
Addressing the media in Kampala, Kabuleta emphasized that the journey to registration was a deliberate strategic move, characterized by quiet groundwork and nationwide mobilization. “People kept asking what we were up to, and I told them—at the right time, they would hear from us. That time is now,” he said.
The upcoming launch event, Kabuleta revealed, will be a “colorful and festive occasion,” welcoming party supporters and aspiring political candidates from all regions of Uganda. He said NEED has already attracted interest from potential leaders across the country, including distant regions such as Karamoja.
“This will not be a Kampala-only party,” Kabuleta stated. “We intend to be a truly national movement with powerful representation in every corner of Uganda.”
Founded on the pillars of economic empowerment, financial liberation, and equitable distribution of national resources, NEED enters the political arena under the slogan “Money in the Pocket.” Kabuleta stressed that the party’s mission is to give Ugandans control over their economic futures and restore dignity to citizens through financial freedom.
In his remarks, the former presidential candidate also addressed speculation about political alliances and his position in relation to the ruling government. When asked whether he was collaborating with President Museveni to weaken opposition unity, Kabuleta firmly denied the allegation.
“I am not working with Museveni. I am working to unseat him and to restore Uganda’s pride,” he said.
Kabuleta, however, clarified that he is not opposed to political coalitions outright, but warned against opportunistic partnerships that have marred past efforts. “I’ve been part of coalitions before, and many turned out to be about raising personal profiles and chasing foreign funding. We will only engage in alliances based on shared principles,” he said.
Kabuleta concluded by inviting all Ugandans who believe in the party’s ideology to join the movement, saying, “We are ready, and we are setting off.”
