Africa-Press – Uganda. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, a renowned academic, cartoonist, and social critic, has hailed National Unity Platform (NUP) bodyguard Godfrey Onzima, popularly known as Tower, as a symbol of courage and resilience.
He described Tower’s story as a powerful reflection of the sacrifices made by many Ugandans aligned with the political opposition.
Ssentongo made the remarks on Thursday while delivering the keynote address at the second certificate award ceremony of the NUP School of Leadership, held in Kampala.
He revealed that Tower’s personal story of enduring violence while remaining steadfast in his duties inspired him to attend the event.
“Tower’s story is a testament to the spirit of sacrifice and dedication that defines our party’s foot soldiers,” Ssentongo said.
“His bravery and resilience inspire me, and I am honoured to recognise him as a symbol of hope and courage.”
According to Dr. Ssentongo, Tower was allegedly assaulted by unidentified men in uniform during a politically charged incident that left him with a broken leg.
Despite the injuries, he reportedly continued to serve as a bodyguard to NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, widely known as Bobi Wine.
Ssentongo emphasised that Tower’s ordeal represents the harsh realities faced by many opposition activists in Uganda.
“People like Tower carry the weight of struggle on their shoulders. Their resilience is what keeps this movement alive,” he added.
The certificate award ceremony was part of the NUP School of Leadership’s broader initiative to nurture young political leaders.
The program focuses on equipping future leaders with knowledge and skills in civic engagement, organising, and public service.
The event attracted party officials, civil society actors, and supporters committed to advancing political transformation through peaceful means.
During the ceremony, party leaders reaffirmed their commitment to grassroots mobilisation and political education, highlighting the importance of discipline and unity.
Tower’s recognition was particularly moving, serving as a reminder of the risks many young people take in pursuit of democratic change.
Though Ssentongo did not provide further details about the incident involving Tower, his speech echoed long-standing concerns about the safety of NUP supporters.
Since the 2021 general elections, multiple human rights organisations have reported increased cases of arbitrary arrests, torture, and intimidation targeting opposition members.
The NUP’s School of Leadership has emerged as a cornerstone of the party’s effort to build a generation of politically conscious and civically engaged citizens. Its curriculum blends political theory with practical strategies for leadership and nonviolent resistance.
Ssentongo encouraged the graduates to draw strength from Tower’s experience and remain committed to the cause.
“In moments when hope seems lost, it is people like Tower who remind us why we keep pushing forward,” he said.
As Uganda’s political climate remains tense, stories like Tower’s amplified by public intellectuals like Ssentongo shed light on the challenges and courage shaping the opposition movement. The ceremony ended with renewed calls for resilience, unity, and a peaceful push for justice and democratic reform.
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