James Churchill Ssentamu, a prominent student leader, has emerged victorious in the highly contested Makerere University Guild Presidential elections, securing 3,459 votes. The 91st Guild President of Uganda’s oldest university is the son of Fred Nyanzi, head of mobilisation for the National Unity Platform (NUP), and is also the nephew of Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, a Ugandan opposition leader. This victory marks a significant moment in Makerere’s political and student leadership history.
In a tense electoral race, Ssentamu emerged as the winner with a narrow margin, defeating his closest rival, John Bosco Rukundo from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who garnered 3,267 votes. Ismaili Basalirwa, also from NUP, secured third place with 3,126 votes. The election results demonstrate a competitive and vibrant political landscape at Makerere, with the students’ votes being highly divided between the major political forces, NUP and NRM.
James Ssentamu’s election victory is notable for his familial ties to influential political figures. He is the nephew of Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, who leads the NUP and has been a key figure in Uganda’s political opposition. This relationship has attracted significant attention both in Uganda and internationally. Ssentamu’s father, Fred Nyanzi, is also an influential figure within NUP, particularly in the area of mobilising support for the party.
Despite his strong NUP affiliation, Ssentamu ran as an independent candidate after losing the party’s official nomination to Basalirwa. This move was seen as a bold decision, with mixed reactions from various factions within the NUP. His victory in the election, however, has cemented his political position within Makerere University, where he serves as the Secretary of the Baganda Nkobazambogo Students Association.
Upon assuming office, Ssentamu faces several pressing challenges, including the issue of rising tuition fees and concerns surrounding academic freedom. These were central themes of his campaign, and he has vowed to address them through student activism and engagement with the university administration. As the Guild President, Ssentamu will play a pivotal role in representing student interests, advocating for policies that promote academic freedom, and balancing the increasing financial burdens placed on students at Makerere.
The Guild President at Makerere University serves as the head of the student government, overseeing the Guild Cabinet, and representing the interests of the student body at the University Council. This role is critical for ensuring that student concerns are heard in university decision-making processes. Ssentamu’s leadership will be scrutinised as he steps into this influential role, navigating both internal university dynamics and external political pressures.
James Ssentamu’s election as Makerere University Guild President signifies a new era of leadership at Uganda’s oldest institution. As he begins his tenure, students and faculty alike will be watching closely to see how he addresses key challenges while maintaining his independence from political factions. His leadership promises to bring fresh perspectives on the issues that affect Makerere students, and his work will likely have lasting implications for the student body’s future.