Hakim Kyeswa Ushers In a New Era as NRM’s Hope to Reclaim Buganda
The race for the Central Executive Committee (CEC) Vice Chairperson for Buganda has taken a decisive turn with the official nomination of Hakim Kyeswa by NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, Dr. Tanga Odoi.
His entry into the contest signals a generational shift and offers the National Resistance Movement (NRM) a real chance at reviving its political fortunes in Buganda ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Kyeswa, a youthful and energetic mobilizer, did not mince words after his nomination. He boldly stated that the party’s previous failures in Buganda stemmed from reliance on aged, overwhelmed, and inactive mobilisers who lacked the vigour and relevance to connect with the majority youthful population in the region.
“The truth is, we lost our grip in Buganda because those entrusted with mobilization were no longer effective. They were out of touch and distracted by multiple responsibilities. If we are to reclaim our dominance, the president must entrust this mandate to a new generation of energetic and focused youth leaders like myself,” Kyeswa asserted.
His statement is not without merit. In the 2021 elections, the NRM suffered its worst defeat in Buganda, largely attributed to poor coordination, unpopular candidates, and a disconnect between the party and local communities. Kyeswa’s opponents, Minister Haruna Kasolo and former CEC Vice Chair Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi, both carry the weight of these failures.
Kasolo, while serving as Minister of State for Microfinance, was in charge of implementing the Emyooga SACCO program, which was meant to uplift communities through financial empowerment.
However, the initiative has faced criticism from various districts for its unclear disbursement mechanisms and lack of impact. Many party insiders argue that Kasolo’s continued ministerial responsibilities make him incapable of focusing fully on reviving the party in Buganda.
Kiwanda, on the other hand, is remembered for presiding over one of the party’s worst election performances in Buganda. Under his leadership, NRM candidates were trounced across major constituencies.
Reports emerged of internal sabotage, candidate imposition, and a leadership style that alienated key grassroots actors. His tenure left the party fragmented, disillusioned, and vulnerable.
In contrast, Hakim Kyeswa presents a fresh, unblemished option one rooted in grassroots engagement, digital mobilization, and an appeal to the vast majority of Uganda’s youth, who make up over 70% of the voting population. His campaign is seen as a movement rather than a mere contest, focused on restoring trust, unity, and visibility for NRM across the Central region.
“This is not just a campaign it is a generational cause that is unstoppable. We are taking back what we lost, not through rhetoric, but through smart, tireless, and inclusive mobilization,” Kyeswa affirmed.
As the NRM looks toward 2026, the choice is clear. With Haruna Kasolo tainted by performance concerns and Godfrey Kiwanda tied to past electoral failures, Hakim Kyeswa stands out as the most credible and strategic candidate to lead the party’s resurgence in Buganda. His nomination marks the beginning of a new era one rooted in youthful leadership, fresh ideas, and results driven mobilization.
