The Chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has released a second set of “Patriotic Officer” (PO) numbers to additional leaders within the organization, continuing a symbolic ranking system that recognizes contributions and establishes internal hierarchy.
The latest designations, announced on March 21, 2026, follow an initial batch awarded to PLU Central Committee members just two days earlier.
Gen. Kainerugaba, who also serves as Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, concluded the update with: “Keep tuned. More to follow.”
The newly assigned Patriotic Officers include prominent figures from government, parliament, and PLU ranks:
- PO 013 – Hon. Frank Tumwebaze
- PO 014 – Hon. Kyeyune Kasolo
- PO 015 – Hon. Ruth Acheng
- PO 016 – Hon. Joanne Okia
- PO 017 – Hon. Atima Jackson
- PO 018 – Hon. Ojara Mapinduzi
- PO 019 – Hon. Nelson Nshangabasheija
- PO 020 – Mr. Frank Mwesigye
The numbering system, modeled after historical military structures like the 1986 National Resistance Army under President Yoweri Museveni, aims to honor founding roles, leadership, loyalty, and contributions to PLU’s growth.
Earlier assignments (PO 001 to PO 012) included Gen. Muhoozi himself as PO 001, journalist Andrew Mwenda (PO 002), Michael Nuwagira alias Toyota (PO 003), and others such as Edwin Karugire (PO 004, Daudi Kabanda (PO 005), Balaam Barugahara (PO 006), Michael Mawanda (PO 007), Lillian Aber (PO 008), a posthumous recognition for the late Cedric Babu (PO 009), Frank Gashumba (PO 010), Henry Basaliza (PO 011) and Fadil Twala (PO 012).
PLU, a youth-focused political movement closely aligned with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), has used the PO designations to formalize its structure and signal expansion ahead of future political cycles.
Recipients and supporters have described the numbers as a mark of pride and commitment to patriotism, while some observers have noted debates over diversity, regional representation, and ties to influential families.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to build organizational identity and loyalty within PLU, which has mobilized nationwide support through door-to-door campaigns and community engagements.