James Churchill Ssentamu, nephew of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), has been elected as the 91st Guild President of Makerere University.
Ssentamu secured 3,459 votes, narrowly defeating his closest rival, John Bosco Rukundo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who garnered 3,267 votes.
Ssentamu, who also serves as secretary of the Baganda Nkobazambogo Students Association, will succeed outgoing guild president Vincent Lubega Nsamba.
His victory marks a significant moment for NUP-affiliated student leadership at Uganda’s oldest university.
A Rocky Road to Victory
Ssentamu’s path to the guild presidency was not without hurdles. Initially, he lost the NUP nomination to Ismaili Basalirwa, who finished third with 3,126 votes.
Undeterred, Ssentamu chose to run as an independent candidate—a decision that sparked mixed reactions within NUP circles.
“This victory is a testament to the trust students have placed in me,” Ssentamu said after his win. “I am ready to address the challenges facing our university.”
Challenges Ahead: Tuition Fees and Academic Freedom
As he assumes office, Ssentamu faces pressing issues at Makerere, including rising tuition fees and concerns over academic freedom.
During his campaign, he pledged to advocate for affordable education and greater student representation in university decisions.
The guild president plays a critical role at Makerere, serving as the head of the Students’ Guild Cabinet and a member of the University Council.
Ssentamu’s leadership will be pivotal in ensuring student voices are heard and their needs addressed.
A New Chapter for Makerere
Ssentamu’s election signals a new era for student governance at Makerere University. With his ties to NUP and his commitment to student welfare, he is poised to make a lasting impact on campus.
As the 91st Guild President, Ssentamu carries the hopes of thousands of students who voted for change.
His tenure will be closely watched as he tackles the challenges ahead and works to fulfill his campaign promises.
