Africa-Press – Uganda. Kawempe Division’s political machinery is being disrupted as a group of disillusioned National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters has launched the “Kawempe Empya School of Independent Leadership,” throwing spanners into the established electoral order ahead of the 2026 elections.
The initiative signals the rise of independent candidates determined to challenge traditional party dominance and reshape voter choice in the division.
The move comes after widespread dissatisfaction with NUP’s internal processes, particularly the allocation of party cards that excluded several aspirants.
Feeling sidelined, these supporters have coalesced into a powerful independent bloc, vowing to provide residents with credible alternatives beyond party lines.
Leading the charge is Hajj Latif Ssebagala, a former mayoral candidate and seasoned politician who has served independently in Parliament for two terms.
Elected as the head of the movement, Ssebagala brings political experience and local knowledge that positions the group for a credible challenge in the upcoming polls.
“We have chosen this path because we believe in the power of the people,” Ssebagala said at the launch.
“Our focus is on empowering voters, fostering unity, and upholding the rule of law. We are committed to serving the people of Kawempe with integrity and dedication.”
The group has adopted the clock as its symbol, representing punctuality, efficiency, and dedication to service. Its platform emphasizes citizen-focused politics, respect for voters’ choices, and upholding ethical governance.
Despite running independently, Ssebagala and his team have pledged support for NUP presidential candidate Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago.
“We believe in the NUP’s vision,” Ssebagala said.
“But the people of Kawempe deserve a wider choice, and we will provide independent candidates who are committed to serving them.”
The roster includes councillors with proven track records and journalist Ali ‘Boxer’ Kasujja, formerly of Next Media, who brings two decades of experience reporting on local issues.
“Having spent 20 years covering the challenges of Kawempe residents, I am now ready to serve the community directly,” Boxer said.
Political analysts say the emergence of the “Kawempe Empya School of Independent Leadership” could significantly alter the electoral dynamics.
By introducing credible independent candidates, the movement injects competition and offers voters a genuine alternative to party-backed aspirants.
Success for the independent bloc will hinge on mobilizing resources, building campaign infrastructure, and clearly communicating their message to residents.
Strategic outreach and voter engagement will be key in translating grassroots discontent into electoral success.
As the 2026 elections approach, Kawempe voters face a historic choice: embrace the independent movement and its citizen-focused approach, or stick with the familiar party structure.
Either way, the political landscape of Kawempe has been fundamentally shifted—spanners thrown into the works, with ripple effects likely to be felt across the division.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
