By Our Reporter
Once a dominant force in Ugandan politics, former ICT Minister Alintuma Nsambu has withdrawn his bid to reclaim the Bukoto East parliamentary seat, bowing out in the face of intense public hostility and a legacy that continues to haunt him.
Nsambu, who served as Bukoto East MP and ICT Minister from 2006 to 2011, has remained a divisive figure, particularly in Masaka where his strained relationship with the Buganda Kingdom has never fully healed. His political fortunes began to decline following accusations of making derogatory remarks about the Kabaka and being complicit in the 2009 closure of CBS FM—an influential radio station affiliated with the kingdom. The incident alienated many of his constituents, particularly the older generation deeply loyal to Buganda.
After a prolonged absence from the political arena, Nsambu signaled a comeback last year, making rounds at community events, funerals, and religious gatherings while offering financial handouts in an effort to rehabilitate his image. Yet, instead of a warm welcome, he encountered open rejection—frequently being booed and chased away by voters still bitter about his perceived betrayal.
Insiders now confirm that Nsambu has officially dropped out of the race. A senior member of his campaign team in Buwunga revealed that the decision followed a closed-door meeting during which Nsambu cited counsel from senior government figures who advised him to step aside for a younger NRM candidate deemed better positioned to reclaim the seat from the opposition.
Shifting Tides in Bukoto East
The incumbent MP, Ronald Kanyike of the National Unity Platform (NUP), is also facing mounting criticism. Initially elected on a wave of pro-Bobi Wine sentiment in 2021, Kanyike has since drawn the ire of constituents who accuse him of underperformance and detachment. Disillusioned campaigners have lamented unfulfilled promises and lack of engagement, both in Parliament and on the ground.
Further complicating matters for Kanyike is a highly publicized feud with his father, Mr. Kaye—a respected Masaka businessman and financier of his 2021 campaign. Mr. Kaye has accused his son of neglecting his duties, prioritizing time in Kampala over constituency needs, and failing to repay campaign debts. He has since pledged to withhold support in the upcoming 2026 elections.
Fractured Opposition, Uncertain Future
Another contender, Kityo Sarah—NRM’s 2021 flag bearer—faces an uphill battle of her own. Once a promising candidate, her reputation has been severely tarnished by ongoing legal troubles, including charges of bribery and misappropriation of funds during her tenure as president of a local federation. She was recently summoned by Masaka Court over a 100 million shilling debt allegedly owed to businessman Richard Kimera, who claims to have financed her previous campaign.
With both Nsambu and Kityo faltering, the political vacuum has opened the door for new players. Among them is Kalema Fred Pax, the Deputy RDC of Bukomansimbi, who has launched an energetic grassroots campaign involving sports tournaments and agricultural donations. If he secures the NRM ticket, Kalema could emerge as a formidable challenger to NUP’s waning influence in the area.
2026: A Constituency in Flux
As Uganda edges closer to the 2026 general elections, Bukoto East is becoming one of the nation’s most hotly contested battlegrounds. The withdrawal of Nsambu, the vulnerability of Kanyike, and the collapse of Kityo’s political capital have left the seat wide open. Voters now await new leadership that can bridge generational divides and restore confidence in political representation.
We wait for the end of this mighty battle!
