Kira Municipality is poised for a pivotal parliamentary contest in 2026 that pits Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), against George Musisi, a lawyer backed by the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Ssemujju, a seasoned journalist-turned-politician who has represented Kira since 2016 (he first represented Kyadondo East in 2011), remains a formidable force. His impressive legislative record and national visibility could give him an edge.
Yet Musisi, buoyed by NUP’s regional dominance and his appeal to younger voters, presents a serious challenge. While Ssemujju’s entrenched popularity tilts the odds in his favor, the fierce rivalry threatens to splinter the opposition, potentially undermining its broader struggle against the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Ssemujju’s political career has been anchored in his ability to resonate with Kira’s urban, politically astute electorate. Since his first election in 2011 for Kyadondo East, later reconfigured as Kira Municipality, he has cultivated a reputation as a principled critic of President Museveni.
His 2021 landslide victory, securing 42,626 votes and winning at nearly every polling station against NUP’s Jimmy Lukwago, underscored his electoral dominance and popularity.
A former journalist with over a decade of parliamentary coverage, Ssemujju has brought a sharp understanding of governance to his role, making him one of the 11th Parliament’s most articulate and informed voices. Together with NRM’s Sarah Opendi, Ssemujju is one of the most active legislators.
Musisi, however, is no ordinary challenger. A human rights lawyer known for defending NUP activists, he combines eloquence with a vibrant community presence. He never leaves NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi’s side. His appeal is amplified by the fact that NUP’s stronghold is Buganda, where Kira is located.
For younger voters, he represents a fresh alternative to Ssemujju, whose long tenure some view as breeding complacency. Musisi’s active engagement in local social activities contrasts sharply with Ssemujju’s perceived aloofness. Musisi could sway voters who prioritize accessibility.
Ssemujju’s edge
Several factors suggest Ssemujju holds the edge over Musisi. His 2021 triumph over NUP’s wave demonstrates a loyal voter base that values his legislative track record over party allegiance. Kira’s urban electorate, attuned to national debates, responds to his high-profile critiques of government excesses.
Ssemujju’s recent move to join colleagues and form a new party (PFF) after falling out with FDC signalled that he can easily adapt and position himself amid the rapidly changing political landscape.
Historical voting patterns further bolster Ssemujju’s case: with a 57% national turnout in 2021, Kira’s electorate likely contributed to his overwhelming victory, given that Wakiso has the second highest number of registered voters after Kampala.
Yet the contest’s intensity carries risks for the opposition. The clash between Ssemujju and Musisi is deepening rifts between among opposition supporters, with some urging Musisi to step aside to preserve Ssemujju’s parliamentary influence.
Others have argued that Ssemujju’s long tenure justifies change. Ssemujju’s occasional critiques of NUP on radio may alienate younger voters.
Therefore while Ssemujju’s experience and visibility make him the likely victor against Musisi, the contest’s fallout could weaken the opposition’s collective fight. The NRM will be the ‘winner.’
