Africa-Press – Uganda. The political landscape of Sembabule District has entered a new chapter following the official handover of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) district chairmanship from veteran politician and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sam Kahamba Kuteesa, to Gen. (Rtd) Phenehas Katirima.
For more than two decades, Kuteesa has been at the helm of the ruling party’s structures in Sembabule, an area long regarded as one of the NRM’s strongest bastions in Greater Masaka. His leadership, deeply entrenched in the district’s political and social fabric, has not only shaped local politics but also defined the rise and survival of several political figures from the region.
The handover, which took place at the Sembabule NRM district offices, was witnessed by party leaders, MPs, and local council representatives, marking what many described as “the end of an era.”
“It’s time to pass on the mantle. I have served this district and party to the best of my ability. Leadership must evolve, and I am confident that Gen. Katirima will carry forward the NRM legacy in Sembabule,” Kuteesa said during the ceremony.
Sam Kuteesa’s political journey spans more than four decades. A close ally of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Kuteesa played a central role in the NRM’s early mobilisation efforts and later in shaping Uganda’s foreign policy as Minister of Foreign Affairs, a position he held for nearly 15 years until his retirement in 2021.
In Sembabule, his influence was unmatched. From the days when the district was still politically volatile in the 1990s, Kuteesa helped consolidate NRM’s dominance, mentoring several local leaders who went on to occupy parliamentary and ministerial positions.
He is credited for spearheading the creation of stable party structures, mobilising support during multiple election cycles, and maintaining Sembabule as one of the few districts that consistently delivered overwhelming NRM victories.
However, his tenure was not without controversy. Over the years, Kuteesa faced criticism from some local leaders who accused him of exercising excessive control over district politics and sidelining younger voices. Despite that, his political stamina and closeness to State House kept him firmly in command of the NRM’s machinery in the area.
Who is Gen. (Rtd) Phenehas Katirima?
The new district chairperson, Gen. (Rtd) Phenehas Katirima, is no stranger to the political and security corridors of Uganda. A veteran of the National Resistance Army (NRA) liberation struggle, Katirima previously served in various military and administrative capacities before venturing into active local politics.
Known for his disciplined and methodical approach, Gen. Katirima has pledged to build on Kuteesa’s foundation while opening up the party to greater participation among youth and women.
“We respect the legacy of Hon. Kuteesa, but it’s also time to modernise our structures and prepare the NRM in Sembabule for the next generation of leadership,” Katirima told delegates after taking office.
Transition at a Time of Shifting Political Winds
The leadership change comes at a time when the NRM faces emerging internal challenges across Greater Masaka, a region that has recently witnessed growing political pluralism. While Sembabule has remained loyal to the ruling party, analysts believe the district must adapt to changing dynamics, especially with younger voters demanding a more inclusive approach.
Political observers note that Kuteesa’s exit may pave the way for new alliances and power realignments ahead of the 2026 general elections. His daughter, Shartsi Musherure Kuteesa, who serves as the MP for Mawogola North, remains an influential figure in both local and national politics, ensuring that the Kuteesa political brand will continue to hold weight in Sembabule.
Sembabule’s politics have historically attracted national attention, often being the scene of intense political contests among NRM heavyweights.
The 2021 parliamentary race in Mawogola North between Shartsi Musherure and Godfrey Aine Kaguta (popularly known as Sodo) laid bare the deep internal divisions within the ruling party, even drawing the attention of President Museveni himself to intervene.
As Gen. Katirima assumes the reins, expectations are high that his leadership will reconcile lingering factional tensions and prepare the district for a smooth NRM performance in upcoming elections.
Kuteesa’s handover is both symbolic and strategic. It signals the generational transition within the NRM as senior historical figures gradually step back, giving room to a new crop of leaders to steer the party forward.
For many in Sembabule, it’s the closing of a historic political chapter one defined by influence, loyalty, and legacy.
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