From Airwaves to Public Office: Journalist Emma Bwayo Wins Namisindwa LC V Chairperson Seat

Namisindwa District has ushered in a new chapter of leadership following the election of journalist and media personality Emma Bwayo as the LC V Chairperson-elect, ending the tenure of incumbent Jackson Wakweika.

According to the official declaration by the District Returning Officer, Sylvia Cheptegei Nangendo, Bwayo secured a decisive victory after polling 37,600 votes, defeating Wakweika—who contested as an independent candidate and garnered 21,328 votes. The results were officially announced at 2:59am on Friday at Namisindwa Technical School, the district tally centre.

The election recorded a total of 58,928 valid votes, with 742 ballot papers rejected, reflecting a largely orderly and competitive exercise across the district.

From Newsroom to District Leadership

Bwayo contested on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket and is widely known beyond the political arena as a radio presenter at Elgon FM in Mbale, where he has built a reputation as a community-focused journalist with strong grassroots connections. His transition from the newsroom to the district’s top political office marks a notable shift, highlighting the growing influence of media professionals in elective leadership. Before his election as LC V Chairperson, Bwayo served as the Namisindwa District Youth Representative, a role in which he became a vocal advocate for youth inclusion in governance. He later rose to become Deputy Speaker of the District Council, further strengthening his profile as an experienced local leader and mobiliser.

Campaign and Mandate

Throughout the campaign, Bwayo emphasized service delivery, youth empowerment, accountability, and inclusive development, messages that resonated strongly with voters across the district. His background in journalism and prior leadership roles helped him articulate district challenges clearly while presenting himself as an accessible and responsive candidate.

His emphatic win is widely interpreted as a vote of confidence in a new generation of leadership and a desire for renewed momentum in district administration.

End of Wakweika’s Tenure

Bwayo’s victory brings to a close the tenure of Jackson Wakweika, who had served as LC V Chairperson of Namisindwa District. Wakweika’s decision to contest as an independent candidate set the stage for a tightly watched race, ultimately resolved by a clear margin in favour of the NRM flag bearer.

As Chairperson-elect, Emma Bwayo is expected to steer Namisindwa District into a new phase, with attention now turning to how he will translate his campaign commitments into policy and action. Residents and political observers alike will be watching closely as he prepares to assume office, bringing together his experience in media, youth leadership, and council administration to guide district development.

His election underscores the evolving dynamics of local politics in eastern Uganda, where professional backgrounds outside traditional political pathways are increasingly shaping leadership outcomes.