James Churchill Ssentamu, the 91st Guild President of Makerere University, has addressed criticism surrounding a photo of him with President Yoweri Museveni, insisting it wasn’t a display of political allegiance. As the student leader, Ssentamu explained that he attended the event in his official capacity, representing over 45,000 students with diverse views.
“I understand why some people are upset, but I don’t blame them,” Ssentamu said, emphasizing the importance of tolerance and diversity. “As Guild President, I’m invited to various functions, and I have to serve the students who elected me.”
Background and Context
Ssentamu’s photo with President Museveni sparked debate, particularly given his ties to the National Unity Platform (NUP), a prominent opposition party. His father, Fred Nyanzi, alias Chairman Nyanzi, is a key figure in NUP, and his uncle is none other than Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, the party’s leader ¹.
Reaction to Criticism
When asked about his father’s call for him to apologize or resign, Ssentamu expressed respect for his father’s views but prioritized his duties as Guild President. “I have to perform my duties and serve the students,” he said.
Affiliation with NUP
Ssentamu confirmed he remains a member of NUP, despite running as an independent candidate in the guild elections. “I am still a member of the National Unity Platform. I have never been suspended from the party,” he stated.
Election Outcome
Ssentamu won the guild presidency with 3,459 votes, outperforming his closest rivals, John Bosco Rukundo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and Ismaili Basalirwa of NUP, who garnered 3,267 and 3,126 votes, respectively