“Roy Ssemboga Is Stronger Than My Dad Chairman Nyanzi In Kawempe South” Makerere Guild President Churchill Ssentamu Supports Dad’s Rival

In a dramatic turn of political events, Makerere University Guild President Churchill Ssentamu has publicly disowned his father Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu’s bid to represent Kawempe South Constituency in the forthcoming elections. Churchill, who has become one of the most outspoken student leaders in recent years, has instead declared his full support for his father’s opponent, Roy Ssemboga, a former Makerere University Guild President and long-time friend.

Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu, an influential figure within the National Unity Platform (NUP) and elder brother to party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known as Bobi Wine, recently announced his intention to contest for the Kawempe South parliamentary seat. His bid was expected to receive strong backing from NUP loyalists and the extended Kyagulanyi family. However, Churchill’s unexpected endorsement of Ssemboga has introduced a new and emotional dimension to the contest.

Speaking during a press briefing at Makerere University, Churchill emphasized that his decision was not driven by personal animosity or family disagreements, but rather by principle and conviction. “I have a lot of respect for my father and my uncle,” Churchill said. “However, I believe Roy Ssemboga understands the problems of Kawempe South more deeply. He has lived among the people, worked with the youth, and demonstrated a level of humility and service that reflects true leadership.”

Churchill went on to praise Ssemboga’s grassroots initiatives in education, youth empowerment, and community development, arguing that these efforts make him the best candidate to represent the people of Kawempe South. “Our community needs leaders who not only have political influence but also a genuine connection with ordinary citizens,” he added.

Ssemboga, who served as Makerere Guild President before Churchill, expressed gratitude for the endorsement, calling it a “symbol of courage and integrity.” “Churchill’s stand shows that Uganda’s young people are ready to choose leaders based on values and competence, not family ties or party pressure,” Ssemboga said.

Political analysts have described Churchill’s move as both bold and risky, considering his close family ties to the NUP leadership. The development could expose internal divisions within the Ssentamu family and the broader party structure, especially given the symbolic role the family plays in the NUP’s identity. However, others have hailed the young guild leader for prioritizing principle over loyalty.

A senior NUP insider, who preferred anonymity, noted that while Churchill’s stance may not derail Nyanzi’s campaign, it does highlight the growing independence of young voters. “This generation is thinking differently,” the insider said. “They no longer follow political lines blindly; they demand accountability and results.”

As the Kawempe South race intensifies, observers say Churchill’s endorsement could influence a significant segment of the youth vote, especially among Makerere students and urban youth who admire his leadership. Whether this act of defiance will strain family relations or reshape the political dynamics within NUP remains to be seen.

For now, Churchill stands firm in his choice, stating, “Leadership is about service, not lineage. My support for Roy Ssemboga is a stand for the future I believe in.”