Nakaseke, Uganda: Former Minister of Finance, Syda Bbumba, returned to active politics with a bang after she was elected Vice Chairperson of the Nakaseke District NRM party structure, marking a major comeback since her political silence began in 2021.
Bbumba, 73, served in several ministerial roles including Finance, Energy, and Gender, Labour and Social Development before resigning in 2012 following allegations of mismanagement of government funds.
She was Nakaseke Central MP from 1996 until 2021, when she lost her seat to Allan Mayanja Ssebunya of the National Unity Platform (NUP).
In the NRM elections held Tuesday, May 27, Bbumba secured 376 votes in the district party elections, defeating David Kimuli, who garnered 69 votes, and Henry Nswemu, with just 27 votes, as declared by the District NRM Registrar, Paul Tandeka.
In her victory speech, Bbumba thanked party members for their confidence and vowed to help the NRM reclaim ground from the opposition. “We are going to restore the strength of our party in Nakaseke. The voters have shown they still believe in structured and seasoned leadership,” she said.
Her campaign received a boost from State Minister for Kampala Metropolitan Affairs, Joseph Kyofatogabye Kabuye, who is eyeing the Nakaseke Central MP seat, and Enock Nyongore, who is targeting Nakaseke North.
Kyofatogabye, who had initially sought the District Treasurer slot, stepped down in favour of Richard Mavuma. “We supported Bbumba because of her unmatched experience and her ability to rally support across all age groups,” said Kyofa.
Meanwhile, incumbent Nakaseke District NRM Chairperson Muhammad Gubya retained his seat with 358 votes, beating Zephaniah Musoke who scored 145 votes. Musoke, however, rejected the outcome, alleging voter bribery and the involvement of non-registered members.
In neighbouring Nakasongola District, Christopher Nkoyoyo also retained his position as NRM Chairperson after defeating Gaster Yawe (105 votes) and George Ssenyonga (2 votes) with a commanding 381 votes.
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