By Our Reporter
As the clock ticks down to the nomination of parliamentary candidates, religious leaders in Sheema South have declared their unwavering support for Prof. Elijah Dickens Mushemeza, praising him as a unifying figure and a selfless supporter of all faiths in the constituency.
Prof. Mushemeza, who recently lost the NRM flag to his predecessor Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu in what many residents described as a flawed and unfair party primary, is again positioning himself as a formidable independent candidate. The clergy, however, have urged voters to shun negative propaganda and instead back leaders who have a proven record of service.
A Champion of All Faiths
Unlike many politicians who focus on partisan lines or sectarian support, Prof. Mushemeza has consistently invested in religious institutions across the divide. His most notable intervention came at Nyakasyambya Catholic Church, which had stood unroofed for 12 years. Prof. Mushemeza organized a major fundraising drive, contributing UGX 10 million of his own money, and further securing another UGX 10 million donation from his close associate, Dr. William Muhairwe. The effort finally gave the congregation hope and dignity after over a decade of waiting.
Similarly, at Kasana Church of Uganda, Prof. Mushemeza spearheaded a drive that raised UGX 70 million—an unprecedented achievement in the area. By rallying his colleagues in Parliament, he ensured that MPs alone contributed UGX 45 million to the cause. Community members say no leader in Sheema has shown such inclusivity and commitment in recent memory.
“Prof. Mushemeza has done things that no leader has done in Sheema for the last 30 years. I will support him as an independent,” remarked one reverend who preferred anonymity.
Muslim leaders have echoed the same sentiments. “Other MPs abandoned us claiming we were too few to matter, but Prof. Mushemeza remembered us. We shall never betray him,” a prominent Muslim cleric declared.
A Contrast in Leadership
The endorsement from the clergy highlights a stark contrast between Prof. Mushemeza and his longtime rival, Prof. Kamuntu. While Mushemeza is celebrated for his visible contributions on the ground, critics argue that Kamuntu—despite holding powerful ministerial positions in President Museveni’s government—left little to show for his tenure in Sheema.
“Kamuntu is banking on propaganda and lies to make a comeback, but his record speaks otherwise. He is out of touch with reality and should better retire to his role as Presidential Advisor,” said Kamukama, a political researcher based in Bushenyi.
Building Momentum
This overwhelming clerical support could prove decisive. In a constituency where religion plays a central role in community life, winning the confidence of the clergy means winning the trust of thousands of faithful followers. With just three weeks to nominations, Prof. Mushemeza’s growing grassroots momentum is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Analysts believe that if the current tide continues, Sheema South could once again witness the triumph of an independent candidate whose politics are rooted not in party colors, but in visible service, inclusivity, and development.
