Category: Daily Monitor

Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) party leader, Mr Jimmy Akena Obote, has made it clear that he is not ready to hang up his political boots despite not being nominated to run for the presidency in the 2026 General Election.

The son of Uganda’s two-time president, Dr Milton Obote, who doubles as Lira City East Member of Parliament, also urged his supporters to fight President Museveni up to January 15, 2026.

Uganda’s fast-approaching presidential election will be held on January 15, 2026, and Mr Museveni, 81, who has ruled Uganda under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party for nearly four decades, is running again for another term.

Addressing a rally at the old Akii-Bua Stadium, Lira City, on October 22, 2025, Mr Akena emphasised that his dream cannot be killed or locked away, arguing that he’s committed to improving the health and welfare of Ugandans.

While campaigning for nominated UPC parliamentary candidates, including his wife, Betty Amongi, who is running for the Lira City Woman parliamentary seat, Mr Akena decided to start with a gospel song.

And the key of the song was that ‘my tomorrow must be greater than today. And it doesn’t matter what they do to me, what they say, whatever they do, I am moving ahead for a better tomorrow.’

Mr Akena said he is in politics for a better tomorrow.

‘That is what we do. And as politicians, we use words to sell our message. Now, there are people who are saying Akena has been defeated. There are those who are saying Akena has been locked up, forget about him. I have not given up. Whether you knock me down, I will get up again and I will continue until the end because I am not finished. UPC is not finished, and the [presidential] election of 2026 is not finished,’ he said.

The legislator said despite facing challenges and sharp criticisms, he knows the one who is behind his problem.

‘And the one person who I am targeting now up to January 15, 2026 is Yoweri Museveni. We are going to fight. I am telling every UPC member, this fight is not over. Up to the 15th of January, we are going to fight,’ he added.

‘I will continue, I don’t know if you people remember the Man U (Manchester United) of yesterday, not the one of today. Man U of yesterday, you never write off Man U, even if it’s 88 minutes, Man U is still playing. Until the final whistle goes, you do not stop playing, you do not stop fighting.’

When asked whether they are ready for the battle, supporters raised their hands as they rallied behind Mr Akena, viewing him as a symbol of hope and unity for Uganda.

‘Because Akena is not stopping, Akena is not giving up, Akena is going to go up to the end. At the beginning, when we had the national anthem, I went on one knee. That is what those of us in sports do when we are protesting something. You don’t have to fight anybody, you don’t have to do anything, when you are annoyed and they are doing wrong to you, you get down on one knee,’ he said.

‘And I am now asking all of you who believe Akena should be on the ballot. The next time the national anthem plays and you are there and you are supporting Akena, you show them you support Akena by getting down on one knee. Let them know we are not defeated. Let them know they cannot take Lango for granted. We are here for a purpose.’

As Uganda heads toward the 2026 General Election, voters have voiced strong expectations for the incoming 12th Parliament, calling for a renewed focus on service delivery, job creation, inclusive growth, and accountability.

From congested city markets and youth unemployment to poor health services and neglected infrastructure, citizens are demanding that their next leaders prioritise issues that directly affect their daily lives. In Rubaga Division, Kampala District, residents said while successive Parliaments have made promises, progress on key issues such as healthcare, infrastructure, and employment remains slow.

They want their next Members of Parliament to push for tangible improvements in public service delivery.

Mr John Vincent, a resident of Rubaga, said the division urgently needs a well-equipped referral hospital to ease the burden on Mulago National Hospital. ‘We have an overwhelming population. Our health centres can’t cater for everyone. People travel long distances to Mulago because our facilities lack medicines, equipment, and staff. The next Parliament must increase health funding and ensure Rubaga gets its own hospital,’ he said.

He also urged MPs to lobby for better urban infrastructure, including road rehabilitation, proper drainage systems, and garbage management areas, which he said have suffered from poor coordination among government agencies.

Better working conditions

Market vendors in Rubaga raised concerns about congestion and poor sanitation. Ms Joweria Mukiibi, a trader at one of the division’s busiest markets, said the markets are overcrowded and unsafe for traders.

‘They removed us from the streets and told us to return to the markets, but they are already full. We pay taxes and daily fees, yet we work in unhygienic conditions and make little profit. We need new markets that can accommodate all vendors fairly,’ she said.

She appealed to lawmakers to ensure that funds meant for market development are used transparently and that women and youth traders are supported with the funds.

Beyond health and trade, residents want the next Parliament to tackle youth unemployment and promote policies that attract investment. Mr Steven Musisi, a resident of Namungoona, said: ‘We want leaders who listen and act, not those who only appear during campaigns. Rubaga deserves better health services, clean environments, and fair market opportunities.’ He added that corruption and weak oversight have stalled development projects, and he urged the next Parliament to hold government agencies accountable for every shilling spent. Voters also called for more attention to youth issues. Mr Kawalya John Viane, a resident of Bulange Zone Two in Rubaga Division, decried rampant youth unemployment and asked MPs to legislate policies that improve youth wellbeing.

Business reforms

In Kampala Central, voters’ concerns centre on creating a conducive business environment. Mr Isa Ssekito, spokesperson of the Kampala City Traders Association (Kacita), said businesses are struggling under high taxes, rent, and operational costs. ‘Several businesses continue to close shop due to high taxes and unfavourable policies. We have resolved to go on strike on November 4, over these issues,’ he said.

Mr Joseph Mukono Kato, a second-hand clothes dealer at St Balikuddembbe Market, said the next MP should address the endless market conflicts. ‘Markets meant for low-income traders are being taken over by tycoons who buy stalls and rent them expensively. We want Parliament to intervene,’ he said. Mr Fred Salongo Kawozo, a member of the Federation of Kampala Hawkers and Vendors Association, demanded designated trade spaces for hawkers to reduce constant clashes with law enforcement.

Meanwhile, Ms Minsa Kabanda, minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs and NRM flagbearer for Kampala Central, pledged to work with relevant ministries to address traders’ concerns. ‘I will advcate for improved city road networks to boost trade and ensure more trade spaces for small traders,’ she told supporters at Nakivubo Blue Primary School.

In Kawempe Division, Ms Grace Namirimu, a resident of Makerere, said there is an urgent need to elect leaders who prioritise the health sector by ensuring that every parish has functioning health facilities, including medicines and medical camps, to complement the services at Mulago Hospital. ‘I want a leader who will prioritise our health facilities. We had the late Ssegirinya who had done wonders, opening up free medical services just for the benefit of the people. We need better hospitals and clinics that can serve us without long waits and inadequate supplies. Our health is our wealth,’ she explained. Another locals, Vianey Lutaaya, highlighted the need for leaders who will tackle the rising cost of education, which prevents many children from accessing quality schooling.

Wakiso issues

Mr Hassan Mukungu from Bukasa-Kirinya said MPs must adhere to the Constitution and ensure equitable distribution of development projects. Ms Fatima Nansubuga, LC1 chairperson of Namugongo-Janda in Kira Municipality, said Parliament should prioritise security. ‘In a month, we lose about four people to unknown gangs in Namugongo. We need security lights on the roads, better drainage, and reduced traffic congestion,’ she said.

Nansana

In Nansana, residents highlighted job creation, healthcare, education, and infrastructure as top priorities.

The NTV News jingle, that crisp blend of modern arrangement and African tonal spirit, has become a familiar cue in Ugandan households, a national soundbite that signals attention, authority, and rhythm.

Yet, few might know that the musical mind behind it is not a corporate composer in some polished studio in Europe, but a Kampala-born multi-instrumentalist who answers to the name Walter Asiku.

Asiku, known in artistic circles as Asikuology, did not just compose a jingle. He smuggled African breath into a mainstream broadcast, placing the sound of indigenous instruments and tonal phrasing into one of the country’s most watched news programmes.

For him, it was not just work. It was cultural intervention through melody. ‘When you hear that jingle, you may not notice it immediately, but there is Africa in it, subtle, dignified, present.’

To many, it is a news intro. To Asiku, it is a quiet declaration that African sound belongs in national memory, not just in heritage museums.

Identity

Well, if music could choose its own vessel, it would choose someone like Asiku, though these days, he rarely introduces himself that way.

That is the name on his official documents, but when he meets people, he says with deliberate rhythm, almost like a chant, ‘I am Asiku. Asiku.’ The repetition feels like a declaration, reaffirmation of identity, roots, and rhythm.

And then comes his artistic identity, Asikuology. Not just a stage name, but a philosophy.

‘In school, we studied biology, chemistry, geography, every subject ended in -ology,’ he says with a quiet laugh.

‘So, I thought, if I am going to commit my life to studying sound from my own perspective, let that discipline be called Asikuology; the study of me through music.’

It sounds humorous, but there is a deeper truth there: this is a man who has chosen to make his musical journey an exploration of self, heritage, and possibility.

The restless ear

Long before he knew what pitch was, before chords were diagrams in a theory book, young Asiku had what seasoned musicians call a restless ear.

He would listen to people sing and feel discomfort ripple through him when notes went astray. ‘Someone would sing off-key and it would disturb me the whole day,’ he recalls.

He could not name what he was hearing, but he knew when something did not sit right. At just nine years old, he joined the service choir at St Francis Chapel in Makerere, a place where worship intertwined with African instrumentation.

That was where he first encountered the adungu, its curved wood and strings shimmering like a mystery. He sat close, observing more than he spoke, studying the players as though decoding a visual language.

One day, curiosity overcame caution. He reached for the adungu, and it answered. There was no formal lesson, no instructor with a pointer and a chalkboard. There was only instinct, repetition, and something like calling.

Music did not arrive in his life as a subject but as an invitation.

From hunger to destiny

When he joined Mengo Senior School, his journey found a new rhythm. Coming from a humble home, pocket money was not part of his daily reality.

During break time, when other students flocked to the canteen in a burst of noise and snacks, he found his own destination: the music room. He recollects, ‘People say I was disciplined, that I was always in the music room. The truth is, I was just broke. And that room was the only place I felt full.’

For six uninterrupted years, every break and lunchtime, Asiku returned there. What began as a necessity transformed silently into destiny. The music room became his sanctuary, a place where the world quieted enough for him to listen to himself.

Inside lay a universe of instruments: piano, bass guitar, trumpet, amadinda, endingidi, kalimba, brass band drums, adungu, ntongooli; African and Western instruments resting side by side like continents waiting to be connected.

He picked them up one by one, not collecting skills but discovering conversation partners. By the time he completed school, he could confidently play about 15 instruments, each with its own personality, demand, and spirit.

His secondary school teachers gave structure to what the teenager had already begun shaping intuitively, but much of his mastery was carved in the quiet hunger of break-time solitude.

‘A lack of pocket money is how God led me to an open destiny,’ he says, and in that single line, his story rests like sheet music on a stand.

A bridge between worlds

Today, under the name Asikuology, he stands as a musician and a bridge between worlds: the drum and the piano, folklore and jazz improvisation, ancestral rhythm and contemporary stagecraft.

His career flows through performances with the Kampala Jazz Orchestra, Makorale Choir, a Makerere University community choir composed of students, alumni and staff, and most notably, The Unbeatables Band, a group known for their exclusive commitment to instrumental jazz.

Their three-year residency at Latitude 0 Degrees Hotel helped shape Kampala’s modern jazz culture, where crowds began to identify their signature tone through the way adungu and piano conversed under his fingertips.

Asikuology reflects: ‘Jazz is freedom. But African instruments have always been free. I just let them meet.’

African sound, global stage

In 2024, he took on one of his most demanding roles yet, as a director and arranger of orchestra, then a vocalist, and navigated the delicate balance between classical form and expressive interpretation.

It was a moment that proved something powerful: African musicians are not limited to cultural showcases; they can command global repertoire with authority and innovation.

His career pulses through powerful moments, leading African instrumentation in the Navio Orchestra Experience, weaving endingidi into a viral NTV News soundtrack that reignited national appreciation for indigenous sound, performing at Orchestra in the City with Maurice Kirya, and standing on the Ubumuntu Arts Festival stage in Kigali, Rwanda, where music became not just performance, but dialogue and reconciliation.

Teaching belief, not just notes

Beyond performance, he teaches, directs choirs, coaches jazz students, trains school ensembles, and stands as an assessor with the Directorate of Industrial Training.

He has judged competitions, facilitated creative workshops, and become part of Uganda’s evolving music education landscape.

He notes:’Africa does not lack talent. It lacks confidence. I do not just teach notes, I teach belief.’

His philosophy is simple but profound; music is not just learnt but lived. And for African artistes, reclaiming sound is also reclaiming narrative.

He collaborates beyond borders, from adungu-drum improvisations with Nepalese percussionist Madan Gopal to kalimba conversations with Kenya’s Liboi, each performance an argument for African sound as an international language.

Debut album

Asiku is sculpting his debut album as a document of sonic heritage reborn through jazz harmony.

‘I do not want to release just tracks. I want to release a language, where adungu and piano improvise like equals,’ he says.

And so, the study continues. Some artistes look for fame. Others chase perfection. But Asikuology is chasing something more enduring, a return to self through sound.

It is a peak evening in Kampala. The city throbs with its usual rush-hour frenzy as cars crawl bumper to bumper. Amid the honking and fumes, an ambulance suddenly drives against oncoming traffic on a one-way street, siren wailing. Behind it, a trail of boda bodas, taxis, and private cars follow closely to escape the jam. A few metres ahead, the convoy meets traffic police. The ambulance speeds through, but the motorists who followed are flagged down, fined instantly, and left wondering what went wrong.

This scene is not unusual on Kampala’s roads. It exposes a widespread confusion; who truly has the right of way in Uganda, and under what circumstances?

What the law says

Right of way, as defined under Section 123 of the Traffic and Road Safety Act, 1998, refers to the legal privilege that allows certain vehicles or road users to proceed while others must yield. It is a principle designed to maintain order and safety on the roads, yet it is often misunderstood or abused.

Driving instructor James Mulakha describes it as ‘a legal instrument granting a motorist, rider, or pedestrian permission to move first while others wait.’ The law gives this right to authorised emergency and State vehicles such as ambulances, fire trucks, police cars, and those used for military purposes. The Minister of Works and Transport may designate others through a statutory order.

Who is entitled?

Kampala Metropolitan Traffic Police Commander Michael Kananura says the vehicles and individuals legally entitled to right of way include the President, Vice President, visiting heads of state, the prime minister, Chief Justice, Deputy Chief Justice, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, as well as emergency vehicles on active duty.

Insights from a Daily Monitor article published in August 2021 further clarify that traditional leaders and private security vehicles do not automatically enjoy rights of way unless they are on an authorised mission.

Dr Steven Kasiima (PhD), a traffic expert, formerly head of the directorate of Uganda traffic police and road safety, notes that misunderstandings often arise because many road users mistakenly yield to vehicles flashing lights or sounding sirens, assuming they are authorised.

Pedestrians also have right of way at zebra crossings and at traffic lights when the signal directs vehicles to stop. However, not all vehicles flashing lights or sounding sirens qualify for priority. Funeral service vehicles, for instance, are not entitled to right of way. Likewise, convoys of dignitaries with police escorts are only valid if the lead vehicle is clearly marked as a traffic car.

Misuse and illegal sirens

Some motorists have taken advantage of the confusion by illegally installing sirens, flashing lights, and alarms in their private cars. These drivers imitate emergency vehicles to force others off the road. ‘This is an unlawful act,’ says Kananura. ‘We continue to mount operations against such motorists, and the cases have significantly reduced.’

Dr Kasiima notes that this misuse not only violates traffic laws but also endangers public safety. Authorities urge the public to report such abuses to prevent accidents and maintain road discipline.

Penalties for violations

Under Uganda’s Express Penalty Scheme (EPS), failing to yield right of way to emergency vehicles can attract fines of Shs100,000. Kananura emphasises that these penalties underline the importance of compliance and the seriousness with which the law protects authorised road users.

Even vehicles with a genuine right of way are not immune to the law. Entitlement does not excuse reckless driving. Drivers of emergency vehicles must exercise caution and will be held responsible if their actions cause accidents. State motorcades are also not exempt, with victims entitled to compensation in case of incidents. President Museveni has, for example, previously ordered compensation for individuals injured in presidential motorcade incidents.

When right of way is abused

Abuse of right of way continues to be a concern. In Mpigi, an ambulance driver was arrested for using the vehicle to transport a dead body, pretending to be responding to an emergency.

‘That is wrong,’ Kananura stresses. ‘Let ambulances be used for their intended emergencies. We will heighten our intelligence systems to prosecute those misusing vehicles with right of way for personal reasons.’

Lessons for road users

Driving instructor James Mulakha advises that patience and discipline remain the cornerstone of road safety. He reminds motorists that failing to yield when required by law constitutes an offence and attracts penalties. Learner drivers, he adds, must ensure their cars are clearly marked with the word ‘Learner’ and that they follow all standard traffic rules.

Traffic officer James Okiru notes that motorists should always wait for official communication from traffic officers before resuming movement when right of way has been given. Pedestrians, too, can be penalised for crossing roads when vehicles with right of way are flagged to move.

A regional perspective

Uganda’s laws on right of way are largely similar to those in neighbouring Kenya and Tanzania. In all three countries, emergency vehicles on duty such as ambulances, police, and fire brigades, take priority, followed by the President’s motorcade and designated State officials. However, Kenya and Tanzania have introduced heavier fines and stricter enforcement against misuse of sirens and flashing lights, measures Uganda may need to strengthen to curb persistent abuse.

A matter of responsibility

Ultimately, right of way is not a privilege to be exploited but a legal measure designed to preserve order and save lives. Misunderstanding or abusing it only adds to the chaos on Uganda’s already congested roads.

Road safety starts with awareness and respect. When the sirens sound and the flashing lights appear, take a moment to think; not every vehicle that demands the road deserves it.

Top five mistakes to avoid

Assuming every vehicle with flashing lights or sirens has legal right of way: Many private cars equip sirens or blue lights illegally. Traffic authorities caution such misuse and treat it as an offence.

Avoid it: Unless you are sure the vehicle is a verified emergency/official unit, do not automatically yield or try to follow.

Failing to yield at roundabouts or intersections: In Uganda the rule is: give way to vehicles already on the roundabout; at intersections without signs, yield appropriately.

Avoid it: Approach cautiously, check for traffic already in the circle or from your right, then proceed when safe.

Overtaking or changing lanes impulsively in dense traffic: With Kampala’s traffic congestion, sudden lane-changes or overtaking increase crash risk. When you are also reacting to vehicles that may or may not have priority, complexity rises.

Avoid it: Keep a safe following distance, signal well ahead, anticipate others’ actions, and avoid weaving recklessly.

Pedestrians crossing outside designated zones or failing to check for priority vehicles: Pedestrians too must respect crossing rules and give way when required.

Avoid it: Use zebra crossings or footbridges, stop behind kerbs, look and listen for traffic (including lateral/behind movements) before stepping out.

Assuming ‘right of way’ gives you licence to drive recklessly: Even authorised vehicles must still drive responsibly. Having priority does not mean immunity from liability.

Avoid it: If you are in an eligible vehicle (such as ambulance, police escort), maintain caution, adhere to signals, and respect other road users.

Police have called for Ugandans aged above 18 with at least a Primary Leaving Education (PLE) certificate to apply for the 100,000 Special Police Constables jobs available.

The applicants, who will protect polling stations during the January 15, 2026 presidential and parliamentary polls, must submit handwritten applications to the Inspector General of Police by November 1, 2025.

According to an announcement dated October 23, 2025, issued by Police Director of Human Resource and Administration, Brig Gen Jesse Kamunanwire, applicants should be registered voters in the area of recruitment.

‘Hand written applications addressed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) accompanied by photocopies of academic documents, National Identity Card, one recent passport size photograph and recommendation letters from LCI, LCIII, and GISO (from the respective districts of recruitment) should be delivered to the Police District/Divisional Headquarters not later than November 1,’ Brig Gen Kamunanwire’s message reads in part.

The recruitment of the 100,000 policing constables will bring the police force’s number to over 165,000 personnel during the election window.

Police recently recruited 10,000 probation police constables, who are undergoing training at several police training schools.

Successful Special Police Constable applicants will undergo a basic month-long police training for and are expected to earn Shs469, 000 per month. They are expected to work for three months.

‘Successful candidates shall work from their respective districts of residence,’ Brig Gen Kamunanwire emphasized.

He said the candidates must be citizens of Uganda with good conduct, no criminal record, and must be physically fit. Applicants who have volunteered with the police will have an added advantage.

Brig Gen Kamunanwire said the applicants must not be serving in any security forces in Uganda.

In previous general elections, most SPCs were only given police uniforms and batons.

However, some of the SPCs were deployed beyond the election period.

Others were retained by the police and taken back to the police school for further trainin. They were later armed and sent to local police stations to support the permanent officers.

In the 2021 General Election, police hired 50,000 polling constables.

Some polling constables protested after they were paid less money than they were promised. They refused to hand over government stores until police cleared the arrears.

Last year, the police requested close to Shs20b to ensure that the recruits are paid promptly as Ugandans decide next year.

Recently, the Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba, said they have procured 90 per cent of the equipment needed in Uganda’s next election.

It’s not lost on Victoria Pearls coach Deus Muhumuza and his assistant Brian Masaba that the voices from the terraces – and social media – have grown louder since the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Windhoek last September.

Critics have come out punching and saying the team looks ‘stagnant, fearful, and unadventurous,’ calling for a bolder approach and fresher selections.

But Muhumuza, who took charge of the reins from Lawrence Ssematimba, insists the process is working – even if the victories haven’t been emphatic.

Key indicators

‘There’s a very big improvement,’ said Muhumuza after Uganda took a 2-0 series lead with a four-wicket win over Canada yesterday.

‘They have the skill set, but now it’s about awareness and consistency. We’re doing the work of many years in a short time, and these games help us test just that.’

He adds that players are now setting their own fields, improving strike rotation, and mastering responsibility at key phases of the game – a step forward from the hesitant displays that haunted previous tournaments.

‘We don’t play the opposition; we play the conditions. When we respect the game, it respects us,’ Muhumuza added, stressing that the focus remains on building a sustainable style rather than chasing short-term applause.

Amuge sets, Nakisuuyi steadies

After Kevin Amuge’s heroics (3/17) in Monday’s seven-wicket win over Canada, Uganda followed it up with another composed performance in Game Two yesterday morning – though it required nerve and grit.

Bowling first again, Uganda restricted Canada to 82/6 in 20 overs, thanks to disciplined spells from Amuge (2/20) and Naume Jane Amongin (2/10). In reply, Immaculate Nakisuuyi’s patient 37 off 57 balls guided the Pearls to 83/6 in 19 overs, sealing a four-wicket win for a commanding 2-0 series lead.

Nakisuuyi, who was named Player of the Match, acknowledged the learning curve the team faces.

‘We’re playing opposition that’s new to us,’ she said. ‘We just have to take it one game at a time. Maybe in the next games we’ll bat first if we win the toss – but for now, the goal is to build partnerships and rotate the strike.’

Her words reflect a measured confidence – one that the team hopes will soon translate into more aggressive, confident cricket.

Building consistency

Muhumuza’s message is clear: this phase is about consistency over chaos. His focus on structure, game awareness, and responsibility is evident even in how the Pearls manage tight chases or defend modest totals.

‘If you’ve followed us since January, you’ll see a big difference,’ he emphasized. ‘We are now playing our 84th game of the season and we want to see how consistently the girls can do the good things – bowlers setting their own fields, batters maintaining strike rates above 90. That’s progress.’

With Uganda ranked 18th in the world and Canada 33rd, the expectation is victory. Yet the greater battle is internal – forging a side that can bat beyond fear, bowl with clarity, and field with confidence.

Uganda are also using this series to prepare for the newly initiated ICC Women’s Emerging Trophy for the top eight women Associate nations that will be hosted in Thailand next month.

VICTORIA SERIES 2025

Canada 67/10 | Uganda 68/3

Uganda won by 7 wickets

Canada 82/6 | Uganda 83/6

Uganda won by 4 wickets

Uganda lead Best of Five Series 2-0

UPCOMING FIXTURES – LUGOGO OVAL

Thursday, Oct 23: 3rd T20I (10am)

Friday, Oct 24: 4th T20I (10am)

Sunday, Oct 26: 5th T20I (10am)

TALKING POINT |

Patient Progress. While fans demand flair and instant transformation, the Victoria Pearls appear to be choosing the longer, steadier road – one built on structure, self-awareness, and steady progress. The two wins over Canada may not have dazzled, but they’ve revealed a growing maturity within the team: bowlers owning their plans, batters valuing partnerships, and a coaching unit focused on consistency rather than chaos. It’s a reminder that evolution in sport is rarely instant – and for Uganda’s women, this phase could be the foundation of something far more enduring.

Elizabeth Buyi and Julius Wanyela first met years ago while they were still in school. At that time, neither of them imagined that their friendship would eventually develop into a romantic relationship. Over the years, they maintained close communication and a strong bond, laying the foundation for something deeper.

As time passed, both felt ready to settle down and build a family together. Their shared dream was to create a home that would not only reflect their love but also inspire those who once doubted their potential.

Distance and devotion

Living in different cities; Elizabeth in Mbale and Julius in Kampala, the couple decided to arrange a physical meeting during the Easter season of 2021. Julius travelled to Mbale, and their reunion marked a turning point in their relationship.

During that visit, Julius invited Elizabeth to accompany him to his home village in Bududa. Upon arrival, she was pleasantly surprised when Julius introduced her to his family at a specially organised gathering. He openly presented her as his fiancée, and his family welcomed her with joy and excitement.

Elizabeth notes that they were unable to meet frequently due to their work schedules. She works as a teacher at Nkoma Secondary School in Mbale, while Julius is based in Kampala. However, during school holidays, she made time to visit him. Despite the distance, the couple maintained consistent communication.

“We would chat now and then while at work, and he would call me every evening after work. If he did not call, I would call him,” Elizabeth recalls. Their commitment to staying connected strengthened their relationship over time.

Elizabeth shares that what attracted her to Julius was his character and vision. “Julius is such a nice man and very visionary,” she says. “He was transparent and always shared everything about his life with me.”

Similarly, Julius was drawn to Elizabeth because of her unique qualities. Her sense of responsibility, the care she showed him, her deep understanding of him, and her reverence for God all strengthened their bond and deepened their relationship.

Courtship, proposal

When it came to courtship, the couple did not take much time. Having known each other since their school days, they had already shared personal stories, learnt about each other’s family backgrounds, and understood each other’s values and circumstances. With that strong foundation, they felt ready to take the next step in their relationship.

Julius proposed to Elizabeth online during one of their regular conversations. While texting, he expressed his desire to have her as his wife.

This heartfelt proposal marked a significant milestone in their relationship and eventually led to the meeting during which, Julius officially introduced Elizabeth to his family.

Wedding preparations

Elizabeth remembers a day when Julius unexpectedly expressed his desire to officially visit her family. This visit would begin with a pre-visit, followed by an introduction, and culminate in their wedding. Elizabeth then spoke to her elder brother, Nambale Matiya Watsusi, who shared the news with their father, Matiya Kasakya Buyi. Initially, her father was hesitant to accept the proposal.

He later referred Elizabeth to his senior pastor, Pastor Moses Gidudu, of Living Word Worship Church in Mbale, who had played a significant role in nurturing her spiritually. The pastor asked Elizabeth several questions and prayed for her, requesting that she returns with Julius.

On an agreed Sunday, the couple met Pastor Gidudu together. He conducted a thorough interview with Julius, prayed for them as a couple, and gave his blessing. Following this meeting, they saw Elizabeth’s father again. Her father questioned Julius about his intentions and plans, to which Julius confidently responded. He then guided the couple on how to proceed with the three traditional functions.

The couple began with a successful pre-visit, followed by a colourful introduction ceremony on October 4, 2025, where they received a letter of consent to marry. Their journey culminated in a joyous wedding celebration on October 11.

Julius emphasises that the key to their successful journey was prayer and trusting God every step of the way.

“What made everything work was prayer and entrusting God with everything we needed to do,” he says. The couple also received overwhelming support from friends, valuable guidance from their parents and elders, and strong backing from their biological siblings on both the maternal and paternal sides of the family and clan.

The couple acknowledges that their journey was filled with challenges. They faced discouragement from some friends, particularly those who did not wish them well. Others had promised support but ultimately let them down, especially on Elizabeth’s side. They also dealt with fears and superstitions, including concerns about accidents, heavy rains, and individuals claiming to have had bad dreams about them.

Despite these setbacks, Elizabeth and Julius remained focused on their goal. Although some of their meetings were attended by only a few people, they are grateful that everything turned out successfully in the end.

Memorable moments

She fondly recalls the joy of seeing so many people attend their celebrations.

“We cannot forget how our friends and family came together to celebrate us in large numbers,” she says.

The couple was deeply touched by the care and attention they received, as well as the thoughtful organisation of the events. Their happiness was further heightened by the pride they felt in how smoothly and efficiently everything was handled.

Reflecting on the celebrations, Julius shares that his best moment was watching his beautiful wife walk down the aisle and seeing all their loved ones gathered to celebrate their wedding.

Advice

The couple advises those planning to marry to place their full trust in God. They emphasise making Jesus Christ the centre of the relationship, loving one another deeply, understanding each other, and being transparent. They stress the importance of valuing and respecting one another, practising humility, and exercising self-control.

The full effects of the fans’ boycott that forced Fufa to drop the proposed new league reforms is yet to be fully measured.

This Thursday is however expected to offer a glimpse of whether everyone has fully moved on from that unfortunate episode as traditional rivals Express and KCCA clash in one of two Startimes Uganda Premier League match-day four games alongside Bul and surprise early pacesetters Buhimba.

KCCA, known to pull some of the biggest crowds appear to have been the hardest hit by the boycotts with their fans staying away for all their three games thus far.

It culminated into their parent body KCCA shipping in the authority’s casual labourers for their first home game at Lugogoas they played out a goalless draw with Lugazi.

The result was a second stalemate after their 2-1 win over Villa to sit third with five points after three games.

The lukewarm start for many teams means Express, KCCA’s opponents are on four points but level with Lugazi and UPPC before match-day four action.

Only improved results appear to be the solution to their fans returning for games having largely shunned Nakivubo since the team switched home grounds from Wankulukuku.

Another off-season transfer period that has been dominated by the two snapping up free agents and promoting players from under age groups means there will be no pressure on seven-time champions Express to deliver any silverware this season.

The same cannot be said of KCCA who are starved of a league crown since 2019.

“We need to focus on improving our precision in front of the goal as a priority,” KCCA co-coach Jackson Magera observed ahead of today’s encounter.

Magera will assume full charge in the absence of Brian Ssenyondo who could be away at the Under-17 World Cup for up to month with the national Under-17 team.

Officials from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit have arrested one of the Mukono South Parliamentary candidates on allegations of obtaining money by false pretense shortly after he was nominated to participate in the 2026 General Election.

Mubarak Ssekikubo, who has been serving as the Chairperson for Nakisunga Sub-county in Mukono District on the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket was arrested on Wednesday after being nominated as an Independent candidate for Mukono South MP seat.

He’s allegedly one of the Mukono District local government officials accused of selling jobs to desperate unemployed applicants.

The media coordinator at the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, Mr Emmanuel Bunnya said Ssekikubo’s arrest came after he severally snubbed their summon to record a statement over allagetions of obtaining money by false pretense, impersonation and bribery in what has come to be known as the Mukono district job-for-sale racket that saw the district service commission boss, Eng. Dr Godfrey Kisuule and the district speaker, Betty Nakasi Hope arrested under similar circumstances in July 2025.

Ssekikubo allagedly received money from different individuals seeking government employment, promising to influence the recruitment process. His arrest follows a wider recruitment scam that marred the Mukono district recruitment process.

Last week, Ronald Mugerwa Saaku, the Probation and Welfare Officer at Lugazi Municipal Council was arraigned before the Mukono Chief Magistrate on similar charges and remanded until October 21, 2025.

Documents seen by this reporter indicate that between January and June 2025, Saaku allegedly conspired with Dr Wataba Saadi, the Lugazi Municipal Medical Officer and Ssekikubo to defraud Dr George William Mukisa of Shs38 million.

Ssekikubo has been on the wanted list until his arrest on October 22, 2025.

‘We’re determined to investigate corruption to the core, acting on the repeated warnings by the president to all the district service commissions and government agencies to stop selling government jobs but have kept a deaf ear,’ Mr Bunnya warned.

Before his arrest, Ssekikubo denied allegations of engaging in corruption after his name was cited in several scandals. He dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.

‘Have never been summoned by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and all the allegations are baseless as they lack evidence of me receiving a bribe from any job applicant,’ he said.

The Mukono district chairperson, Rev. Dr Peter Bakaluba Mukasa suspended the district service commission, citing many anomalies in the recruitment process where different commissioners were freely asking for bribes from applicants.

Ms Nakasi decried the practice of selling government jobs and questioned how her name ended up on the list of suspects before calling for investigations to be expedited.

‘We’re into a political season and we’re being witch-hunted by our opponents. So, we want the Anti-Corruption Unit to expedite the investigations and have our names cleared,’ she said.

A protected witness Thursday told the International Crimes Division of the High Court that one of the accused persons on trial for the 2015 murder of former Senior Principal State Attorney Joan Kagezi confessed to him that he and his colleagues were given a deal to kill her.

The witness, codenamed ‘Witness D’ (for protection), testified before a panel of four justices led by Justice Andrew Bashaija, sitting with Justices Duncan Gaswaga, Joyce Kavuma, and Richard Wejuli.

Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Thomas Jatiko, who appeared with Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka, led the state’s 18th witness in examination.

The three accused persons John Kibuuka, John Masajage, and Nasul Mugonore were present in court and are represented by Elizabeth Nampola on state brief. The victim’s lawyer is Sylvia Namawejje.

Witness D, whose identity and residence are coded on court record, told court that he had known Masajage for over ten years, describing him as a good friend.

He said he met Masajage and the other accused persons, Kibuuka and Mugonore, while working in several villages supplying bread using bicycles.

‘In those places, we were supplying bread in different shops,” the witness said, adding that they worked together for years before parting ways when Masajage became a boda-boda rider.

The witness narrated that ‘one morning, security operatives arrested Masajage, Kibuuka, and Mugonore in one of the villages.’

‘They were brought in a vehicle and taken to the house where they used to stay. They found a basin of bullets,’ he told the court.

He added that the suspects were later taken away by security officers and he did not see them again for about five years.

When asked what he later learned about the men, the witness said, ‘When Kagezi died, we started hearing that they had killed a judge, and that is when we got to know.’

He testified that he saw a photograph of his friend Masajage among the suspects in the state-owned Bukedde newspaper and a poster pinned in his village.

‘I saw him, and I even bought the newspaper,’ he added.

According to the witness, he later met Masajage again in another village around 2021.

‘I found my friend in Village G. We talked, and I asked him about the newspaper I had seen, whether it was true,’ he said.

The witness quoted Masajage as responding: ‘Yes, it is true.’

He added that Masajage told him they were given a deal to kill Kagezi but did not reveal who offered it.

‘He told me that by killing Kagezi, they were also just given a deal,’ the witness testified.

Pressed by prosecution to explain further, the witness said Masajage mentioned other participants in the operation, including Kibuuka, Mugonore, and a one Dan Kiseka.

‘He told me they followed the judge from Kampala up to Kiwatule,’ the witness said.

‘When she stopped at a supermarket to buy things for home, they used that opportunity and ended her life. He told me they shot her with bullets.’

The court heard that Kagezi, who was at the time leading prosecutions in high-profile terrorism cases, was gunned down in March 2015 in Kiwatule, Kampala, as she stopped to buy groceries on her way home.

The court adjourned the hearing to October 24, 2025, for further proceedings.