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QUALIFICATIONS QUESTIONED: Bugiri’s Kasajja Mulumba to be sued over fake academic papers despite getting nominated for the NRM primaries

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QUALIFICATIONS QUESTIONED: Bugiri’s Kasajja Mulumba to be sued over fake academic papers despite getting nominated for the NRM primaries

The race for the Bugiri District Chairperson (LC5) seat is experiencing significant turbulence as the impending National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries are clouded by a legal challenge against the nomination of Mr. Kasajja Davidson Mulumba, the incumbent.

Bumpenje & Co. Advocates, representing Mr. Kyotaite Muhussein, have formally notified Mr. Mulumba of their intention to file a lawsuit, asserting that he fails to meet the minimum educational prerequisites as outlined in Section 123(d) of the Local Government Act Cap 243.

The notice, dated June 17th, 2025, alleges that Mr. Mulumba is presenting academic qualifications that belong to another individual named “Kasaja Davi Son Mulumba,” and that he lacks the necessary Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or its equivalent, a mandatory requirement for the position.

Beyond the legal notice, Bumpenje & Co. Advocates have also petitioned the NRM Electoral Commission of Uganda, formally challenging Mr. Mulumba’s nomination.

This petition reiterates the claims made in the legal notice, arguing that Mr. Mulumba’s nomination contravenes Article 44(1) of the NRM Constitution, which stipulates that candidates must fulfill all legal requirements to be eligible for nomination.

The petition also highlights a previous letter sent to the NRM Electoral Commission on June 3rd, 2025, which flagged similar objections to Mr. Mulumba’s nomination.

The current legal action was prompted by the Commission’s decision to proceed with the nomination despite this prior warning.

Bumpenje & Co. Advocates are now imploring the NRM Electoral Commission to urgently review Mr. Mulumba’s nomination documents and ultimately revoke his candidacy.

The petition explicitly warns that failure to take action will result in legal proceedings against both the Commission and Mr. Mulumba himself.

“We trust that the commission will handle this matter with the seriousness it deserves and uphold the integrity of the electoral process,” the petition reads, underscoring the importance of ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.

If substantiated, these allegations could have serious ramifications for both the NRM primaries and the subsequent LC5 elections in Bugiri District.

The outcome of this legal challenge is being closely monitored by political observers and residents of Bugiri, as it raises pertinent questions about the thoroughness of the candidate vetting process and the overall integrity of the electoral system.

As of the time of this report, Mr. Mulumba has not issued a formal statement addressing the allegations. Similarly, the NRM Electoral Commission has yet to publicly comment on the petition lodged against his nomination.

This is a developing story and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The unfolding events will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in Bugiri and potentially influence the outcome of the upcoming elections.

EMPOWERING YOUTH: Busoga receives digital equipment and vocational tools donation from MTN Uganda in effort to bridge digital divide in region

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EMPOWERING YOUTH: Busoga receives digital equipment and vocational tools donation from MTN Uganda in effort to bridge digital divide in region

MTN Uganda, in partnership with several key organizations, has reaffirmed its commitment to bridging Uganda’s digital divide and empowering youth through a significant donation of digital equipment and vocational tools to the Busoga Kingdom.

The donation, which took place on Tuesday, June 17th, 2025, at the Inhebantu Lady Alice Mulooki Memorial Library and ICT Centre in Jinja, is part of MTN’s annual 21 Days of Y’ello Care volunteerism campaign.

The support was gratefully received by the Busoga Kingdom’s Second Deputy Prime Minister, Owek. Osman Noor Ahmed, on behalf of the Kingdom, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in the region.

Owek. Ahmed was accompanied by other prominent Kingdom figures, including Kyabazinga Affairs Minister Owek. Babirye Yudaya and Busoga Kingdom’s Minister of Gender and Children Affairs Florence Kafuko.

The comprehensive donation included ten computers with one-year internet subscriptions, ten tailoring machines, ten hair-dressing kits, and water-harvesting tanks designed to support kitchen gardening initiatives.

This comprehensive approach aims to enhance digital literacy and create income-generating opportunities for vulnerable groups, particularly teenage mothers and young women. Furthermore, the water-harvesting tanks will contribute to improved household food security, addressing a critical need within the region.

In addition to the material donations, MTN Uganda’s female staff engaged in a friendly football match with teenage mothers, fostering a sense of community and breaking down stigma. This initiative served to empower the young women and raise awareness about the prevention of teenage pregnancy, a pressing concern in the Kingdom.

“We greatly thank MTN for its continued support in empowering our young people with the tools and skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” said Owek. Ahmed during the event.

He emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “This partnership strengthens Busoga’s commitment to youth development and resilience through technology and training.” He also conveyed greetings from His Majesty Kyabazinga of Busoga William Gabula Nadiope IV and his wife Her Royal Highness Jovia Mutesi, the Inhebantu of Busoga.

This initiative comes at a crucial time for Busoga, which faces a high rate of teenage pregnancy – estimated at over 30% among adolescent girls, according to the Ministry of Health.

Simultaneously, digital access remains limited across Uganda, with only 10% of the rural population owning or being able to use a computer and just 27% regularly accessing the internet, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics.

Juliet Kakayi Nsubuga, Managing Director of Bayobab Uganda, an MTN Uganda affiliate, framed the initiative as part of a broader effort towards digital inclusion. “Connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” she stated. “Our partnership with Busoga reflects a commitment to inclusive growth through expanded access to digital infrastructure and knowledge.”

Nsubuga emphasized that the combination of vocational tools and reliable connectivity forms a critical component of MTN’s strategy to reduce economic vulnerability among young women by equipping them with employable skills that promote independence.

This marks the second time Busoga has benefited from MTN’s Y’ello Care campaign, with a previous donation of 20 computers to the same center in 2016. Those resources have since proven invaluable in equipping thousands of learners with essential digital skills.

The 2025 Y’ello Care campaign, themed “Connecting at the Roots – Connecting Communities through Digital Tools,” builds on this foundation and expands support across five regions within Uganda.

Beyond Busoga, MTN Uganda is actively implementing similar projects nationwide. In Kampala, they are collaborating with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to address urban youth unemployment through the Kabalagala Youth Centre.

In the Greater Central region, specifically Luwero District, MTN is partnering with the Nnabagereka Development Foundation to promote youth-led agribusiness initiatives.

In northern Uganda, the focus is on addressing teenage pregnancy through digital reproductive health education in collaboration with the Ker Alur Kingdom. Finally, in western Uganda, MTN hopes to support the Tooro Kingdom in advancing digital tourism and raising awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention.

The campaign, valued at UGX 500 million, is a collaborative effort involving various organizations, including the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, MTN Mobile Money Uganda Ltd, Bayobab, Maendeleo Foundation, AYO Uganda, Roofings Group, Transsion, Xeno Investment, and AYO.

Launched in 2007, the 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign mobilizes MTN staff across Africa each June to volunteer their time and expertise in community service.

This initiative aligns strongly with MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 strategy, which places digital and financial inclusion at the forefront of its vision for sustainable national development.

Through these targeted interventions, MTN Uganda is making significant strides in empowering communities, bridging the digital divide, and fostering a brighter future for the nation.

MOSES MAGOGO: Kadiba Stadium 25% complete but ready for AFCON training use

Musa Kikuuno
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MOSES MAGOGO: Kadiba Stadium 25% complete but ready for AFCON training use

The newly renovated Kadiba Stadium is only 25% complete, but according to FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo Hasim, it is already fit to serve as a training facility for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking after a floodlit friendly match between the Parliamentary Football Club and the President’s Eleven on Tuesday night, Magogo said he was pleased with the facility’s early performance despite ongoing work.

“So far, so good. This facility is usable,” said Magogo. “Even at 25% completion, it meets the standards to be a training ground for AFCON. We’re testing it at night to see how the pitch responds and how the lighting performs.”

Kadiba currently runs on 30% lighting capacity, but plans are in motion to upgrade it to 100% illumination to reach full broadcast-standard floodlighting. “When the lights are complete, they’ll meet international requirements, including TV coverage,” Magogo added.

The game also served as a test event for the playing surface, infrastructure, and night-time match suitability. The positive turnout and performance of the facility gave FUFA confidence in its interim readiness.

Despite the promising progress, Magogo emphasized that Kadiba remains a work in progress. “Only a quarter of the full development plan has been implemented. But our strategy is clear—every phase should be functional,” he noted.

He stressed that continued support from government and FIFA is critical for full completion, but called on more stakeholders to invest in football infrastructure, especially in upcountry regions.

“The dream is not just for Kadiba,” Magogo said. “Regions like Busoga, Bugisu, Ankole, and West Nile deserve similar facilities. That’s where Uganda’s future football talent lies.”

The stadium joins Uganda’s limited list of venues capable of hosting night football, including Namboole, Kitende, Nakivubo, and Philip Omondi Stadium.

Meanwhile, MP Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, who played in the match, praised FUFA’s phased approach. “I pushed for increased football funding in Parliament. Seeing this progress shows that the money is being put to good use,” he said.

THE RIGHT ONE: Kamuli District NRM delegates endorse Kadaga for key CEC position

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THE RIGHT ONE: Kamuli District NRM delegates endorse Kadaga for key CEC position

By Moses Kintu


In a unanimous decision, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) delegates and leaders of Kamuli district have endorsed Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga for the position of the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) member (female).


This decision was made during a meeting held at the youth center, attended by Members of Parliament, spiritual leaders, stakeholders, aspiring Members of Parliament, and LC5 candidates.


The NRM leaders in Kamuli district have expressed their support for Kadaga’s bid to retain her seat in the CEC, a position that has caused divisions among the NRM leaders.


The endorsement of Kadaga is a result of her outstanding achievements in Kamuli, Busoga, and Uganda at large.


The Chairman of NRM Kamuli district, Bazanya Mathias, emphasized the importance of supporting Kadaga, stating that she is the right person for the position.

He said, “We want to support you, Mama Kadaga, because you are the right person for the CEC position.”


Kadaga has been a significant figure in Ugandan politics, having served as the Speaker of Parliament for two consecutive terms.

Her achievements during her tenure as Speaker have been remarkable, and she has been a strong advocate for women’s rights in Uganda.


Under Kadaga’s leadership, Kamuli district has seen significant development, with various infrastructure projects being implemented.

She has also been instrumental in advocating for the rights of the people of Busoga, and her influence has been felt throughout the region.


The NRM delegates and leaders of Kamuli district believe that Kadaga’s experience and achievements make her the best candidate for the CEC position.

Her leadership skills and dedication to serving the people of Uganda have earned her the respect and support of many.


The endorsement of Kadaga by the Kamuli district NRM delegates is a testament to her leadership abilities and her commitment to serving the people of Uganda.

It is a clear indication that she has the support of the people she has served, and they believe in her ability to continue making a significant impact in Ugandan politics.


In conclusion, the NRM delegates and leaders of Kamuli district have endorsed Kadaga for the CEC position, citing her achievements in Kamuli, Busoga, and Uganda at large.


Her leadership skills and dedication to serving the people of Uganda have earned her the respect and support of many, and she remains a significant figure in Ugandan politics.

ADDRESSING PERIOD POVERTY: Relief in Buyende as girls receive menstrual hygiene kits from SHARE Project

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ADDRESSING PERIOD POVERTY: Relief in Buyende as girls receive menstrual hygiene kits from SHARE Project

Jubilation on 5th June 2025 filled the air in Makanga Town Council, Buyende District, as the community commemorated World Menstruation Day, an event organized by Right To Play under the Sexual Health and Reproductive Education (SHARE) Project program.

The arrival of Veronica Babirye Kadogo, former Buyende District Woman MP and current EALA MP, was met with enthusiastic cheers and applause, highlighting the importance of the occasion and the impact of the SHARE Project.

The event took on a poignant turn when a young girl, overcome with emotion after being invited to lead the anthems, burst into tears. Kadogo, a trained social and community health professional, quickly recognized the cause: the girl had unexpectedly started her period.

This incident served as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by girls in the district, highlighting the lack of essential resources in schools, including emergency sanitary pads, proper washrooms, and access to safe water.

This experience galvanized Kadogo to champion school sanitation programs. “Menstruation hygiene management is not a privilege, but a human right,” she declared, condemning the stigma and exclusion that girls and women face due to a natural biological process.

Speaking passionately, Kadogo emphasized that managing menstruation requires more than just sanitary pads. Access to clean water, soap, and privacy are crucial. She urged leaders to prioritize budgetary provisions for these essential resources in schools, public institutions, and homes.

Kadogo further highlighted the ongoing struggle to advocate for menstrual health within government. She recalled raising concerns in the 10th Parliament about girls missing school due to a lack of resources, advocating for free sanitary pads in schools.

She argued that if the government could provide free condoms, prioritizing menstrual health for girls was equally vital. Unfortunately, these appeals have so far been unsuccessful.

Nelson Mandela Odero, the program officer of Right to Play Uganda, outlined the SHARE Project’s multifaceted approach. This includes menstrual education, distribution of reusable cloth sanitary pads, and the creation of safe spaces for open discussions.

“By providing girls with the necessary knowledge, resources, and support, the program empowers them to manage their periods with dignity, attend school regularly, and pursue their education without interruptions,” he explained.

The program targets pupils aged 10-14, community youths aged 15-24, teachers, parents, district leaders, and health workers, impacting over 2,700 youth.

Buyende District Education Officer Dison Bwire officially handed over 91 menstrual hygiene management skills start-up kits and materials to 65 primary schools’ senior women teachers and 26 community mentors.

He emphasized the importance of advancing menstrual equality in schools and communities to address period poverty, promote gender equality, support environmental conservation, and contribute to the holistic development of girls.

Many girls, he explained, resort to unhygienic alternatives due to a lack of access to affordable sanitary products, leading to missed school days and perpetuating harmful social norms.

Emmanuel Kaigulo, Buyende District Community Development Officer, praised the SHARE Project for contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 5 (Gender Equality) and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

He called for increased awareness, peer-to-peer support in schools, child-friendly information platforms, and the provision of disposal containers (“pad pin bins”) in schools and communities.

Josephine Poni, a community mentor from Kagulu sub-county, expressed her gratitude to Right to Play for their intervention. She believes the program will empower girls and women with affordable reusable sanitary pads and valuable skills, enabling them to become economically independent and ensuring more girls attend school without fear.

To mark World Menstruation Day, the Right to Play distributed 91 branded sewing machines and materials for training to make reusable sanitary pads, worth UGX 51 million, to 65 primary schools’ senior women teachers and 26 adolescent girls and young women community mentors.

This initiative promises to bring significant relief to girls and women in Buyende, ensuring they can manage their menstruation with dignity and continue their education without interruption.

The hope is that this progress will inspire wider systemic changes and increased government investment in comprehensive menstrual hygiene management programs.

FRESH HOPE: Can Bugabula finally break through and make its mark in the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup this season?  

Musa Kikuuno
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FRESH HOPE: Can Bugabula finally break through and make its mark in the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup this season?  

As the stage is set for the 8th edition of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup, anticipation is building across the region—but nowhere more than in Bugabula, a county long admired for its football talent, yet still chasing a first-ever appearance in the tournament final.

With the 2025 edition just about to kick off, Bugabula finds itself in what looks like a “promising draw,” raising fresh hopes that this could finally be the year they break their semi-final curse.

Format, Hopes

This year’s format groups the 14 participating counties into four zones: Bukowe, Kagulu, Nhendha, and Mawembe.

Bugabula is placed in the Bukowe group, along with Luuka and Bukooli Bugiri. The Kagulu group features Buzaaya, Bulamogi, and Bunha. Crucially, under the 2025 knockout arrangement, only one team from Bukowe and Kagulu combined will reach the final.

The semi-final structure—pitting winners and runners-up from these two groups against each other—means Bugabula could face familiar opposition in both the quarter-finals and semi-finals. This scenario not only increases their chances of progressing but also ensures that they avoid teams that have previously knocked them out until the final stage, if at all.

The Semi-Final Wall

Bugabula’s story is not short on heartbreak. Since 2022, when the tournament resumed after the COVID-19 break, they have consistently made it to the semi-finals—only to be denied a spot in the final each time.

In 2022, it was Kigulu who ended their dream.

In 2023, it was Busiki who pulled the plug.

In 2024, it was Butembe who stood in the way.

Ironically, those three counties are now in positions where they can only face Bugabula in the final—provided they make it that far. This means Bugabula’s toughest past opponents are not in their direct knockout path this time.

A 75% Shot?

Bugabula has a 75% chance of reaching the final this year—a hopeful prediction based on their draw, past performance, and the absence of their historical semi-final blockers in early rounds.

Still, they will need to navigate a competitive field that includes Luuka, Bukooli Bugiri, Buzaaya, Bulamogi, and Bunha—all of whom are also eyeing the single final slot available to Bukowe and Kagulu teams.

Bunha has previous finals experience, while the others remain hungry and ambitious. If Bugabula is to rise above them, they will need to front a well-prepared, united, and motivated squad from day one.

The Unpredictability Factor

Recent editions of the Masaza Cup have been anything but predictable.

In 2022, Bukooli Namayingo shocked everyone to win the title.

In 2023, it was Busiki.

In 2024, Bukono joined the list of surprise final appearances.

This unpredictability gives every team—no matter how unheralded—a real shot. For Bugabula, it’s both a warning and a motivation: reputation alone won’t carry them to the final.

All Eyes on Bugabula

The tournament hasn’t started yet, but already the spotlight is fixed on Bugabula. Their consistency, strong fan base, and hunger for glory make them one of the most-watched teams of the 2025 edition.

If they seize the moment, avoid internal slip-ups, and ride the wave of opportunity that this year’s format presents, Busoga could finally see Bugabula in the Masaza Cup final—for the first time in history.

The journey begins soon.

SOMBRE TAKEOVER: Sarah Sambya takes oath as acting LC5 Chairperson for Kamuli District following Kuwembula’s passing

Baz Waiswa
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SOMBRE TAKEOVER: Sarah Sambya takes oath as acting LC5 Chairperson for Kamuli District following Kuwembula’s passing

By Moses Kintu

Kamuli District has a new leader at its helm as Sarah Sambya, the former LC5 Vice Chairperson, was officially sworn in as the acting LC5 Chairperson on Monday.

The ceremony, presided over by Chief Magistrate Owino Paul, took place at the district boardroom and marked the transition following the tragic death of former Chairperson Maxwell Kuwembula Mugudde in a car accident last week.

The solemn event saw the attendance of various district officials, councilors, and members of the media, highlighting the significance of the change in leadership for the district.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Nasser Mukiibi pledged his unwavering support to Sambya, assuring her of a conducive working environment.

He emphasized the importance of continuity and effective service delivery to the people of Kamuli during this period of transition.

In her address after taking the oath, the newly appointed acting chairperson, Sarah Sambya, called upon the technical staff of the district to collaborate seamlessly with her administration.

Emphasizing the need for unity and dedication, she urged them to focus on delivering essential services effectively to the residents of Kamuli.

The transition of power adheres to the established legal procedures. According to local government regulations, upon the death of a district chairperson, the Minister for Local Government is required to instruct the CAO to invite the Chief Magistrate to oversee the installation of the Vice Chairperson in an acting capacity.

This move ensures continuity of governance and provides stability while the district mourns the loss of their former leader and prepares for the next steps in determining a permanent replacement for the LC5 Chairperson position.

The focus now shifts to Sarah Sambya as she steps into her new responsibilities and navigates the district through this challenging time, striving to uphold the legacy of her predecessor and serve the people of Kamuli with dedication.

POLITICAL ALLIANCE: Budiope West MP race sees major shakeup as former MP Musoke backs Mutagaya against Minister Babalanda

Editor
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POLITICAL ALLIANCE: Budiope West MP race sees major shakeup as former MP Musoke backs Mutagaya against Minister Babalanda

The political landscape in Budiope West, Buyende district, is undergoing a significant transformation as politicians vying for the Member of Parliament seat consolidate their efforts to secure victory.

In a surprising turn of events, former Budiope West MP Robert Musoke has announced his withdrawal from the race, throwing his weight behind fellow aspirant Dennis Mutagaya.

This development, as reported by Busoga Times, is seen as a strategic alliance aimed at challenging the ambitions of Minister for Presidency Milly Babalanda, who is also in the running.

Robert Musoke has announced his withdrawal from the race, throwing his weight behind fellow aspirant Dennis Mutagaya

Sources suggest that the partnership between Musoke and Mutagaya is specifically designed to counter Babalanda’s influence, particularly in Nkondo Sub County.

Mutagaya, hailing from Buyende Town Council, is optimistic that Musoke’s supporters in Nkondo will now rally behind his campaign, effectively expanding his base and diminishing support for Minister Babalanda, who is considered an outsider due to her origins in neighboring Kamuli district.

Speaking to Busoga Times, Musoke emphasized the importance of Budiope West being represented by a “son of the soil,” citing this as the driving force behind his decision to endorse Mutagaya.

His declaration resonates with local sentiments and potentially weakens Babalanda’s appeal to voters who prioritize local representation.

In response to the endorsement, Mutagaya expressed his gratitude and welcomed Musoke to his team. He highlighted the alliance as an opportunity to bridge divisions within the constituency, particularly between Buyende Town Council and Nkondo.

https://soundcloud.com/busoga-times/dennis-mutagaya-welcomes

“For the time, we are going to have peaceful elections in Buyende Town Council and Nkondo,” Mutagaya stated in an interview. “We are coming with a new trend; instead of fighting, we are uniting. I am happy that my brother has decided to support me. This has given us a new chapter of peace.”

The collaboration between Musoke and Mutagaya signals a potential shift in the dynamics of the Budiope West parliamentary race.

By combining their resources and support bases, they aim to present a unified front against Minister Babalanda, leveraging the sentiment of local representation to their advantage.

This alliance promises to be a significant factor in shaping the outcome of the upcoming elections and ushering in a new era of political unity in the region.

BUGIRI’S NEW KINGMAKER: How Solomon Silwany eclipsed Justine Lumumba to reshape Busoga’s political horizon

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BUGIRI’S NEW KINGMAKER: How Solomon Silwany eclipsed Justine Lumumba to reshape Busoga’s political horizon

By Kyotaite Muhussein

Bugiri and the broader Busoga sub-region, long accustomed to the formidable political presence of figures like Justine Kasule Lumumba, are now witnessing a compelling recalibration of power.

A new architect is meticulously laying bricks, and his name, Solomon Silwany, echoes with increasing resonance across the political landscape, suggesting a torch has quietly, but decisively, passed hands.

For years, the political narrative of Bugiri and indeed much of Busoga was often narrated through the lens of Justine Kasule Lumumba. A seasoned politician, her career trajectory was nothing short of meteoric.

From serving as the Women’s Representative for Bugiri District in Parliament since 2001, she ascended to the influential position of Chief Government Whip, a strategic conduit between the Executive and the Legislature.

Her zenith arrived with her appointment as the Secretary General of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in 2014, a role that cemented her as a political titan, a veritable high priestess of the party’s machinery, wielding immense influence across the nation.

Her voice carried the weight of the party, her presence a magnet for political activity, and her camp, once an undisputed bastion of power in Bugiri, seemed unassailable.

However, the winds of political fortune are ever-fickle, and the current whisper on the ground suggests a new breeze, strong and purposeful, is now blowing from Bukooli County Central, championed by the diligent Solomon Silwany.

While Lumumba transitioned into a cabinet role as Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister (General Duties) in 2021, a significant national appointment, the pulse of grassroots influence in her former political heartland appears to have shifted.

Solomon Silwany, the Member of Parliament for Bukooli County Central, is not merely rising; he is demonstrably consolidating power with the quiet precision of a master craftsman.

His ascent to the Parliamentary Commission, the highest decision-making organ of Parliament, speaks volumes of his growing clout within the legislative arm. This is no mere backbencher; he is now a hand guiding the legislative compass.

But it is his strategic actions on the ground that truly paint the picture of a dominant force. Silwany has invested not just in political rhetoric, but in tangible symbols of party strength and presence.

The recently commissioned NRM Party offices in Bugiri District, a project he spearheaded, stand as a testament to his commitment and organizational prowess. This event, however, was also a crucible moment.

It was here, as Justine Kasule Lumumba and her favored candidate, Stephen Mutumba, notably abandoned the ceremony, that the fault lines in Bugiri’s political landscape became starkly visible.

It was at this very juncture that Silwany, sensing the shifting currents and the palpable disconnect between the old guard and the aspirations of the grassroots, made the decisive move to contest for the NRM District Chairperson position.

Perhaps the most telling indicator of this evolving dynamic comes from the political chessboard of Bugiri itself. Solomon Silwany’s subsequent victory as the newly elected NRM Chairman of Bugiri district, directly defeating Stephen Mutumba – Kasule Lumumba’s preferred candidate and the former chairman – amidst considerable chaos, was a thunderclap.

This triumph, a noticeable tremor beneath the surface of Busoga politics, stands in stark contrast to Lumumba’s struggling camp. A particularly poignant development is the alignment of figures like Namatende, a seasoned politician who once challenged Lumumba, with Silwany’s camp for the upcoming 2026 elections.

This migration of political allies is a powerful metaphor for the shifting allegiance and trust among local political actors – a clear sign that the political tides are turning.

Furthermore, Silwany has emerged as a key convener of regional NRM leaders, as evidenced by his role in leading a group of Busoga NRM figures to back Speaker Anita Among’s candidature for the NRM delegates’ conference. This initiative positions him not just as a local leader, but as a significant regional broker, capable of mobilizing and directing political currents across Busoga.

In the grand tapestry of Ugandan politics, influence is not static. While Justine Kasule Lumumba’s legacy as a powerful national figure remains etched in the annals of the NRM, the ground beneath Bugiri and Busoga is undeniably yielding to a new gravitational pull.

Solomon Silwany, with his strategic investments in party infrastructure, his ascending role in Parliament, and his growing ability to unite regional political forces, is fast becoming the undeniable political compass for Bugiri and a significant influencer across the vast, fertile plains of Busoga. The political pendulum, it seems, has swung, and Silwany’s star is undeniably in the ascendancy.

Mr. Kyotaite Muhussein – Political Analyst and Lawyer

HAT-TRICK STAR: Kabene settles into Crested Cranes setup with ease after remarkable exploits at ongoing Uganda’s CECAFA Campaign

Musa Kikuuno
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HAT-TRICK STAR: Kabene settles into Crested Cranes setup with ease after remarkable exploits at ongoing Uganda’s CECAFA Campaign

Sylvia Kabene etched her name into CECAFA history with a dazzling first-half hat-trick, powering Uganda’s Crested Cranes to a dominant 5–0 victory over South Sudan in the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship.

The defending champions bounced back impressively after a narrow 1–0 loss to Burundi in their opening fixture. In that game, Kabene came on as a second-half substitute for Latifa Nakasi. But on Sunday evening at the Azam Complex, she made her first tournament start—and wasted no time making an impact.

The Musoga forward from Mafubira, who plays for St. Noah Girls FC, found the net in the 6th, 21st, and 34th minutes, completing a hat-trick in just 34 minutes—the first of the 2025 edition.

Her stellar performance earned her the Woman of the Match award walking away with  an award of Two hundred and fifty thousand Tanzanian shillings.

“ I thank the Almighty for this win. I managed to score three goals and was named Woman of the Match. I appreciate my teammates for their teamwork and my coach for giving me the opportunity to play today,” Kabene said after the match.

Shamirah Nalugya and Zainah Namuleme added a goal each to seal a comprehensive win for the Crested Cranes, who now sit joint-top of the standings alongside hosts Tanzania, both with three points and a +4 goal difference.

Kenya follows with the same number of points but a slightly lower goal difference (+3). Burundi and South Sudan round out the table, with the latter yet to register a point.

Action returns on Tuesday June 17th, when Tanzania faces Burundi and Uganda meets regional rivals Kenya in what is expected to be one of the tournament’s most thrilling encounters.

Kabene’s hat-trick draws parallels to standout performances from the 2022 CECAFA tournament. That year, Tanzania’s Omary Mwanahamisi scored three goals and Opa Clement netted four in a 12–0 rout of Zanzibar, while Ethiopia’s Aregash Kalsa Tadesse also registered a hat-trick against South Sudan.

As the tournament heats up, Sylvia Kabene has emerged as one of the standout names—her performance not only reviving Uganda’s title hopes but also capturing the pride and passion of fans across Busoga and beyond.

At the end of this tournament, a team that will have collected many points will be crowned champions since it’s being played in a round robin format.

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