Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, a prominent opposition leader and Member of Parliament for Kira Municipality, has once again made waves with his biting critique of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) following their unexpected defeat in the Kisoro Woman MP by-election.
Known for his sharp humor and fearless commentary, Ssemujju used this latest development as an opportunity to deliver a satirical yet pointed analysis of the ruling party’s approach to elections and political power.
Ssemujju, who is no stranger to using satire to challenge the government, remarked on the Kisoro by-election, “The Kisoro Woman MP by-election is one NRM would win, but with NRM, even what they would easily win, they would still rig.” His words reflected both the absurdity and irony of the situation: despite the NRM’s historical stronghold in the region, their reliance on manipulation of the electoral process to secure victory often leads to outcomes that are more damaging than advantageous. Ssemujju’s statement underscored the paradox of the NRM’s strategy—what could have been a straightforward win ended up in an embarrassing loss due to the party’s overzealous attempts to control the election results.
The Kisoro by-election was widely expected to be a walkover for the NRM, given the region’s historical allegiance to the ruling party. The NRM has enjoyed a solid base of support in the area for years, making the contest seem like a foregone conclusion. However, in a surprising turn of events, an independent candidate emerged victorious, a result that has raised questions about the effectiveness of the ruling party’s electioneering tactics. The loss has led to widespread speculation that the NRM’s controversial tactics—ranging from alleged vote-rigging to voter intimidation—may have actually played a role in their defeat, further alienating voters rather than consolidating their support.
Ssemujju’s comments resonated deeply with many Ugandans who are disillusioned by what they perceive as the NRM’s desperate and undemocratic methods to maintain political control. His observation that the NRM’s obsession with rigging elections is not only a sign of insecurity but also a reflection of the party’s declining popularity, struck a nerve with the electorate. For many, the ruling party’s fixation on manipulating the electoral process rather than trusting in its own support base is a sign of political desperation.
The growing sentiment among Ugandans, as echoed by Ssemujju, is that the NRM’s tactics are not only a betrayal of democratic principles but also increasingly ineffective in securing genuine political victories. The electorate’s frustration with the NRM’s interference in what could be simple and transparent elections is palpable. For many, Ssemujju’s remarks offer a mix of humor and truth, providing a much-needed release for the pent-up dissatisfaction felt by citizens who long for a fairer, more transparent electoral system.
The Kisoro by-election result has served as a wake-up call for both the NRM and the opposition. For the NRM, the outcome has raised serious questions about the party’s waning popularity and the effectiveness of their strategy of electoral manipulation. For the opposition, it signals a growing opportunity to challenge the political status quo, as the electorate becomes more attuned to the need for change and reform in the political system.
Ssemujju Nganda’s mocking of the NRM’s handling of the Kisoro by-election reflects a broader discontent with the ruling party’s governance style and its persistent attempts to control every aspect of Uganda’s political landscape. The incident highlights the increasing desire among Ugandans for free and fair elections, where citizens can choose their leaders without fear of manipulation or intimidation. As the opposition continues to advocate for greater transparency and fairness in Uganda’s elections, Ssemujju’s commentary serves as both a criticism of the current political environment and a call for change, one that many Ugandans are now eager to see realized.