Makindye division councillors yesterday elected John Tugaineyo as speaker and Siraje Bukenya as his deputy during the first sitting of the new council.
The speakership race attracted two candidates, including Tugaineyo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and Erias Ssemwogerere of the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Tugaineyo won the election after securing 30 votes against Ssemwogerere’s 18 votes.
In the deputy speakership race, Bukenya also emerged victorious after polling 30 votes, defeating Bushira Kasule, who received 18 votes.
Speaking after his election, Tugaineyo pledged to work harmoniously with all councillors.
“I will cooperate with all councillors regardless of their political parties,” he said.
Tugaineyo also revealed that he had secured 100 scholarships from Cavendish University to support councillors who may wish to pursue further education.
“Any councillor who wants to continue with education will have the opportunity because the space is available,” he added.
Makindye Mayor Yasin Omari said he was optimistic about working with the newly elected council leadership to improve service delivery in the division.
“I have four key priorities for the Makindye division. I want zero potholes, zero crime, zero darkness, and zero garbage,” Omari declared.
The second sitting of the council is scheduled for June 5, 2026.
