Son Challenges Father's Long Reign in Mukono LC I Election

A heated Local Council I election is underway in Bubiro Village, Mukono District, with a dramatic familial twist. Thirty-year-old Reagan Ssembajjwe of the National Unity Platform (NUP) is running against the long-serving incumbent, 70-year-old Fred Musisi of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

The election has garnered significant attention due to Musisi’s public denial of Ssembajjwe’s claim that he is his biological son. Ssembajjwe accuses Musisi, who has led the village for years, of poor governance, citing controversial land dealings and a lack of essential community assets like public tents and kitchenware.

Ssembajjwe also criticizes the current administration for holding official village meetings at the chairperson’s home, suggesting a need for more transparency and accountability in governance. He emphasizes his commitment to improving village affairs if elected.

Musisi, however, dismisses these allegations as politically motivated. He acknowledges raising Ssembajjwe from the age of 10 after the young man came to his home as a casual laborer, but firmly states he is not his biological father. Musisi also corrected the tenure of his leadership, stating he has served as LC I chairperson for 20 years, not over 40 as suggested.

Furthermore, Musisi has questioned Ssembajjwe’s eligibility to run, alleging his rival is not a resident of Bubiro Village.

The race has already seen other local aspirants withdraw and endorse Ssembajjwe, a move reportedly brokered by NUP officials to unite the opposition vote. The outcome hinges on issues of leadership, familial claims, and the desire for new representation in this closely watched grassroots election.

This report is based on information from Nile Post.