Africa-Press – Uganda. National Unity Platform (NUP) preesident Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu has urged residents of Buvuma Islands to renew their trust in his leadership ahead of the 2026 general elections, pledging sweeping reforms in governance, health, and education if elected president.
Kyagulanyi made the appeal during International Women’s Day celebrations organised by Buvuma Woman MP Suzan Nakaziba Mugabi, held at Bukaali Primary School in Buwooya sub-county.
He was welcomed with cheers and chants by hundreds of enthusiastic supporters, many of whom voted for him in 2021 despite his inability to physically campaign on the islands.
“I thank you for trusting me with your vote in 2021, even when I couldn’t be here in person. That vote was not just for me — it was a vote for a new Uganda,” Kyagulanyi said.
e reiterated his intention to contest again in 2026, calling on Buvuma voters to remain firm in their pursuit of change.
“When you vote for me, you are voting for better healthcare, for quality education, and for leadership that listens and serves,” he said.
Kyagulanyi also condemned the increasing displacement of island residents from their land and fishing zones, describing it as a threat to both livelihoods and cultural heritage.
He further denounced the continued torture and detention of NUP supporters across the country, vowing to prioritise justice and accountability.
He was accompanied by key NUP leaders including Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, Vice President Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, and several local representatives.
Rubongoya urged locals to remain politically active and vigilant in the electoral process.
“We must protect our vote this time. Do not be discouraged — your voice matters, and your vote is your power,” he said.
Vice President Muwanga Kivumbi took aim at government neglect of Buvuma, citing poor roads, lack of electricity, and inadequate social services despite the district’s rich fish and sand resources.
“Buvuma remains one of the most underdeveloped parts of Uganda. What explains this neglect if not poor leadership and mismanagement?” he asked.
MP Suzan Mugabi, who hosted the event, reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening NUP’s presence across all the islands and supporting residents through direct interventions.
She donated sewing machines, soap, and maternity kits to women, and handed over five hospital beds with mattresses to a local health centre she helped establish — now under government management.
“My commitment is not just political — it is personal. I will continue supporting you and amplifying your voices,” Mugabi said.
In a rare bipartisan moment, Buvuma District Chairperson Adrian Wasswa Ddungu of the ruling NRM also attended the event.
He acknowledged the district’s persistent challenges, including poor transport, limited healthcare, and underdeveloped infrastructure, and called for greater collaboration to improve conditions.
Buvuma was one of the districts where Kyagulanyi defeated President Museveni in the 2021 presidential elections, securing 13,572 votes to Museveni’s 6,814.
As the 2026 elections draw nearer, Buvuma is expected to be a key political battleground once again — with opposition and ruling party leaders vying for control in a region increasingly seen as symbolic of Uganda’s broader struggle for equitable development and political reform.
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