16 Candidates Vie for Makerere University Guild Presidency

In the upcoming Makerere University’s 90th guild elections scheduled for March 7, a total of 16 out of the 22 registered aspirants have successfully secured nominations to contest for the esteemed guild presidency. The nominations, approved by the university’s 90th Electoral Commission on February 23, reveal a diverse pool of candidates, with only two of them being female.

Among the aspiring candidates are Jonathan Basakirwa, Muhammadi Mukwaya, Ibrahim SSendagi, Victoria Mayiga, Elizabathe Shakira Wacha, Hamis Kabaale, Vincent Lubega Nsamba, Edmond Ariho, Andrew Efiti, and George Ssemanda. The list further includes Simon Wandukwa, Mudathiru Ssemanda, Fulugensio Kasekende, Joshua Ssemuyaba Vitali, and Allan Micah Ikemeri.

During a press briefing on February 23, the chairperson of the electoral body, Ramadhan Kirunda, issued a stern warning to the nominees, cautioning them against violating the guidelines set forth by the Makerere Electoral Commission (EC) and the university’s laws. New guidelines include restrictions on the number of supporters accompanying candidates, avoidance of national political affiliations, and the mandate to conduct all campaign activities virtually.

This marks the third instance of virtual elections being organized by Uganda’s oldest institution, following the suspension of physical electoral activities in July 2022 due to an unfortunate incident during the 88th guild campaigns. The adoption of new technology aims to mitigate past challenges, ensuring a seamless and secure voting process for the university’s students.

According to Kirunda, over 400 students have expressed interest in contesting for Guild Representative Councils (GRCs) across various schools and halls of residence. With an expected participation of over 30,000 students in the upcoming online elections, the stage is set for the selection of a new guild leader to succeed outgoing president Robert Maseruka, whose term ended on February 8.