Kampala, Uganda: The race for the NRM flag as Central Region Youth MP candidate has taken a dramatic turn with the unimaginable tactics of Samuel Begira, whose campaign has sparked renewed excitement among youth delegates and grassroots voters across Buganda.
With the slogan “Better Together!”, Begira is positioning himself as a unifier and purpose-driven candidate offering a break from the traditional political class that has dominated the youth league for years. His message of unity, productivity, and grassroots empowerment has gained traction on both the ground and social media, where his campaign poster has gone viral.
“This is not just another candidacy. Samuel Begira represents a generational call to action,” said Isma Kaweesi, a parish youth leader from Mukono District. “We’ve seen the old guard recycle themselves. Begira is offering a new pathway.”
Begira’s Grounded Campaign Strategy
Known for rising through various youth leadership positions both in school and community, Samuel Begira has refused to rely solely on rhetoric.
In recent months, he has traversed districts including Kayunga, Lwengo, Sembabule, and Kyotera, engaging youth groups, distributing cocoa seedlings, farm tools, and calling on young people to take charge of Uganda’s agricultural future.
During a campaign stop in Lwengo, Begira told a youth delegation: “We must begin to see farming not as a last resort, but as a frontier of innovation and independence.”
His grassroots strategy, combining practical empowerment with political education, is seen as a sharp contrast to past contenders who relied heavily on elite endorsements or money politics.
And that’s not it all, Begira has repeatedly called on youth to actively participate in NRM’s internal elections, warning that voter apathy gives room to recycled leadership. “Your vote is your future,” Begira told students at a youth policy dialogue in Gomba. “We must nominate, vote, and ensure our voices are heard at every level.”
Begira has also promised to push for policies that secure start-up funding for youth businesses, skill-based scholarships, and legal reforms that protect young entrepreneurs.
A recent op-ed by political analyst Julius Matovu described Begira as “the most ideologically clear candidate” in the race, noting that his focus on productivity, patriotism, and spiritual values has resonated widely.
Strategic Appeal, Rising Popularity
The Central Region Youth MP seat has historically been dominated by candidates with entrenched ties in national youth structures, and now, Begira’s campaign is testing that order by leveraging mass mobilization and a social-first communication model.
His emergence has reportedly forced rival camps to recalibrate. “What was thought to be a two-man race is now wide open,” said an NRM youth league insider who requested anonymity.
Begira has also distinguished himself by consistently uplifting women and mothers. During a Mother’s Day outreach in Mukono, he praised maternal figures and called for increased government investment in maternal health and the girl-child’s education.
“Empowering mothers is nation-building,” he told the gathering. “A society that neglects women’s welfare cannot achieve sustainable development.”
Begira’s strategic team says the campaign is not just about capturing the MP seat, but about building a resilient movement that links rural youth to national opportunities.
A youth coordinator from Butambala, who requested anonymity for this story, said, “We believe in Samuel because he listens. He doesn’t promise heaven. He gives us tools, ideas, and purpose.”
Electoral Roadmap
The Central Region Youth MP seat, previously held by Agnes Kirabo, was secured with 780 votes during the 2021 NRM primaries. Delegate turnout ranged between 600–1,000 across the sub-regions. Begira’s camp is aiming for a minimum of 1,200 solid contacts by nomination week.
Although the final list of aspirants is yet to be confirmed by the party’s Electoral Commission, Begira’s early ground game and issue-based messaging have already propelled him to frontrunner status.
This year’s NRM youth primaries will be among the most closely watched contests in the lead-up to the 2026 General Election, according to party insiders.
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