Jet J.N. Tumwebaze: Statement (18.01.2026)

Opinion: Sodo “Mr. 5 Votes” are now the flagbearer

“I’m going to be MP for Mawogola North, there are no negotiations; if any, they will be in my favour” – Aine Godfrey Kaguta Sodo (04.06.2025).

Aine Godfrey Kaguta Sodo, the President’s brother is now the flagbearer of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) after incumbent MP Musherure Sharts Nayebare Kutesa, daughter of former Foreign Minister Sam Kutesa stepped down to adhere to an agreement from 2021.

The election in Ssembabule district and in the Mawogola North constituency it has now been resolved in the ruling party. As the political families of Kaguta and Kutesa has come to an agreement. Last time they both ran as independents and Musherure Sharts Nayebare Kutesa won. Meanwhile, Sodo only got 5 votes in the previous election. He was the least popular candidate and had such a massive loss. Even Salim Kisekka gotten voters on his side. Therefore, who believes Sodo will bring a landslide now?

That the wheeler-dealer and inside deals within the NRM makes these things happen isn’t shocking. As they are part of the deal and how the NRM operates. As the powerful and the ones with influence can gain control and get political power. That’s why Sodo is getting it now. Even if he isn’t popular or even someone who has a record of voter support.

That’s why it’s a big deal that the Kutesa’s family is stepping down for Sodo. He is getting ahead, because someone who is tested and was able to gain support withdraw. Most likely she will get a plum-job or be appointed somewhere nice after the General Elections in 2026. That’s what is happening after the polls and part of the agreement between the parties. However, this isn’t a winning strategy.

Now Mr. 5 Votes must win over the whole constituency. He has won over the ruling regime because of his family and the influence he sways there. As well as the “gentleman” agreement which was adhered too. That just shows how these things are, and it isn’t a given.

This isn’t a sign of strength or wisdom really. Especially knowing how it all went down in 2021. The district has already said “no” to him and he could be met by other more likeable persons. Even the likes of a Salim Kisekka or someone else who has a little heart and political capital in the constituency. That’s who can beat him and humiliate the brother of the President. It is arrogance to push your candidacy this way…

Sodo isn’t showing character or nobility but instead wants to force himself on the public. That isn’t leadership, but greed and ego. Peace.