THE WORKERS’ BEST CHOICE: WHY HON. AGNES KUNIHIRA MUST RETURN TO PARLIAMENT (2026–2031)

As Uganda moves closer to the 2026 General Elections, the national conversation around effective representation, workers’ welfare, and labour rights has gained renewed urgency. Among the key figures at the centre of these discussions is the Female Workers’ Member of Parliament, Hon. Agnes Kunihira Abwoli, fondly known by many in the labour movement as “Omu bwati.” Her name has become synonymous with unwavering commitment, practical solutions, and a work ethic that has elevated workers’ voices across the country.

Hon. Kunihira’s record is not built on rhetoric; it is grounded in tangible achievements that have transformed the landscape of labour representation in Uganda. As workers prepare to choose their next representative for the 2026–2031 term, many argue that her return to Parliament is not only justified — it is necessary.

A Strong Voice in the House: Legislative Excellence

During her tenure, Hon. Kunihira has been a central player in shaping the labour agenda in Parliament. She has successfully tabled Bills, contributed to national debates, and provided critical input in strengthening laws that protect Ugandan workers across all sectors.

Her active involvement in appropriation and oversight has ensured that national resources allocated to labour-related programmes are efficiently utilised, while accountability remains uncompromised. Colleagues and sector stakeholders often cite her diligence and mastery of labour policy as key to many legislative gains achieved under the 11th Parliament.

A Landmark Contribution: The Workers’ Centre of Excellence

One of her most outstanding achievements is her personal investment in establishing the first-ever Workers’ Centre of Excellence in Uganda — a four-storeyed facility located in Ntinda–Kigowa.

Funded solely by Hon. Kunihira, this centre stands as a monumental milestone in the history of Uganda’s labour movement. It houses:

Free office space for 10 labour unions,

Fully covered utilities,

Free conference facilities,

And dedicated spaces for training, advocacy, and union strengthening.

This is not just a building; it is an infrastructure legacy that will serve generations of trade unionists and workers’ leaders long beyond her parliamentary career.

Empowering Labour Unions Through Capacity Building

Hon. Kunihira’s dedication extends far beyond infrastructure. She has been at the forefront of capacity building, supporting unions to become more organised, more knowledgeable, and more influential.

Through trainings, mentorship, and strengthening leadership structures within trade unions, she has empowered workers’ representatives to advocate effectively for fair wages, occupational safety, social protection, and improved working conditions.

Union leaders consistently commend her for being available, approachable, and solution-oriented — traits that have helped bridge the gap between workers and policymakers.

Steadfast Leadership as Chairperson of the Gender, Labour and Social Development Committee

As the Chairperson of the Gender, Labour and Social Development Committee of Parliament, Hon. Kunihira has provided stable, visionary leadership. Under her stewardship, the committee has handled key national issues including labour reforms, social protection policies, gender equality frameworks, and the welfare of vulnerable populations.

Her leadership style — methodical, inclusive, and driven by evidence — has earned her respect across party lines.

A Top Performer in Parliament

Independent parliamentary scorecards and civil society assessments rank Hon. Kunihira among the best-performing legislators in the country. Her attendance, contribution to debates, constituency engagement, and legislative productivity consistently stand out.

For workers across Uganda, her performance is not theoretical — it is felt in their unions, workplaces, and communities.

The Workers’ Verdict: Kunihira Must Return

After reviewing her track record, many workers’ federations, labour unions, and grassroots representatives have made their stance clear: Hon. Agnes Kunihira should return as the Female Workers’ MP for the 2026–2031 term.

Their argument is simple:

She has delivered beyond expectation.

She has built lasting structures for the labour movement.

She understands workers’ challenges at every level.

She remains committed, focused, and grounded in service.

In a political climate where performance is increasingly scrutinized, Hon. Kunihira stands out as a model of what effective representation should look like.

Hon. Agnes Kunihira’s record speaks for itself. Her legislative impact, infrastructural contributions, and unmatched dedication to empowering labour unions position her as the leading choice for Female Workers’ Member of Parliament for the 2026–2031 term.

For many workers across Uganda, the choice is clear: A renewed mandate for Hon. Agnes Kunihira is a renewed commitment to protecting and advancing workers’ rights nationwide.