MUKONO.The Democratic Party (DP) chairperson for Buganda Region George Fred Kagimu has officially launched his second bid to unseat the incumbent legislator Betty Nambooze in Mukono Municipality .
Kagima urged voters to reject what he described as “empty opposition politics” and embrace development-oriented leadership.
This was during a dinner at Colline Hotel in Mukono on Friday . It was attended by DP leaders, religious figures, civil society representatives, and party supporters.
The former mayor of Mukono Municipality seeks to unseat Nambooze, who has represented the constituency for 20 years under the opposition umbrella.
DP leaders used the event to rally support for a shift from defiance politics to constructive engagement with government structures.
“For two decades, Mukono has been stuck in a mindset that defines opposition as constantly resisting and insulting the president,” Kenneth Sebagayunga, the DP parliamentary candidate for Mukono North ,said ,adding .
“That narrative has failed to bring development. People want water, roads, and services, not endless political battles.”
Sebagayunga questioned why essential services such as boreholes and street lighting remain inadequate, urging voters to elect leaders willing to work with the government to deliver public goods.
In his address, Kagimu defended collaboration with government agencies, saying it does not equate to supporting the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
He argued that engagement is necessary to advance community transformation.
“Speaking eloquently in Parliament is not enough. People need roads, street lights, schools, and healthcare,” Kagimu said.
“Seeking government support doesn’t mean you’ve joined the NRM—it means you’re serving the people who elected you.”
Kagimu pledged to run an issue-based campaign built on unity, inclusiveness, and accountability. He criticised leaders who use public office for personal gain while neglecting citizens’ needs.
Pastor Samuel Lwandasa, one of the speakers at the event, urged candidates to conduct peaceful campaigns and avoid divisive language.
“Politics comes and goes, but our communities must continue to live in harmony,” he said. “Let’s lead with love, not hate.”
Also in attendance was Livingstone Ssewanyana, Executive Director of the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative, who commended Kagimu’s message of responsible leadership.
“Although I don’t engage in partisan politics, I care about leadership that serves people,” Ssewanyana said. “Mukono has suffered long enough. It needs a leader who listens and delivers.”
Before joining politics, Kagimu was a celebrated motor rally driver, a career he says instilled discipline and competitiveness. He later served as Mayor of Mukono Municipality for one term before focusing on national politics.