Churchill James Ssentamu, son of National Unity Platform (NUP) mobiliser Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu, has said he will not apologise for appearing in a viral photo with President Yoweri Museveni, insisting he was simply fulfilling his duties as Makerere University Guild President.
The photo, taken during Makerere’s Research and Innovation Week where President Museveni was chief guest, sparked online backlash and prompted criticism from his father, who publicly condemned the act and called on his son to apologise.
But speaking to journalists at the university’s Guild offices on Friday, Churchill remained unapologetic.
“As a son, I cannot speak back against my father, as it would be disrespectful,” he said. “However, I did face a conflict between my personal beliefs and public responsibility. In my actions, I was simply fulfilling my official duties as Guild President of Makerere University students who voted me into office, and that’s all.”
Churchill noted that the photo was not a personal encounter but part of a group moment with other university leaders during an official function.
He argued that Makerere, being a public institution, cannot avoid engagements with government officials, including the President.
“It is inevitable,” he said. “If President Museveni visits the university in his capacity as head of state, student leaders like myself are expected to represent the student body, regardless of political differences.”
Churchill urged the public not to judge his family for his actions. “I call upon the public not to blame my family, especially my father, because of my actions as the Guild President. My father has an independent role in NUP as the party’s mobiliser, but he is not a guild presidential advisor,” he said.
Despite the criticism, Churchill said he remains focused on his mandate to serve students and improve the university.
“When I took this responsibility, I was well aware of the burdens that could come along,” he said. “I remain committed to the values of truth, justice, and servant leadership. I will continue to work in the light of our shared ideals and strive for a better Makerere and a better Uganda.”