By Hannah Marion Namukasa
As the political winds shift in Busiro East ahead of the 2026 general elections, a silent but determined contender is gradually gaining ground not through loud rallies or flashy posters, but through a quiet, strategic presence and an enviable track record. Ssempala Allan Kigozi, a respected digital human rights lawyer and governance advocate, is emerging as a potential replacement for Hon. Medard Lubega Ssegona, whose future on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket remains unclear.
Though he has kept his cards close to his chest, Ssempala is increasingly being seen as the underground candidate that the people and the party should start paying close attention to. His calm demeanor and quiet campaign contrast sharply with the often theatrical nature of Ugandan politics. But beneath that silence lies a powerhouse of experience, intellect, and visionary leadership that could redefine the role of a Member of Parliament.
Sempala brings with him a multi-dimensional portfolio that blends legal expertise with a keen understanding of digital rights, constitutionalism, governance, and youth empowerment. His work in defending digital freedoms and advocating for online safety has positioned him as a forward-thinking leader the kind Uganda’s evolving democracy needs in Parliament.
He represents a new breed of political actors who are not driven by populism but by principle. His leadership is not based on noise, but on nuance. Not on patronage, but on purpose.
Why NUP Should Pay Attention.
The National Unity Platform has positioned itself as the party of the future a movement for the oppressed, the young, and the visionary. But to sustain that momentum, NUP must embrace technocratic, informed, and values-driven leaders who can engage both at the grassroots and on the policy level.
Sempala Allan Kigozi fits that profile. His background allows him to articulate the future of digital democracy a critical area as Uganda navigates the intersection of governance and technology. He understands the voice of the digital youth, the power of civic technology, and the threats to freedom of expression in cyberspace. In an increasingly digital world, such a leader is not just valuable he is essential.
The People’s Candidate Quietly
While Sempala may not yet be holding community rallies or launching large campaign drives, his name is being whispered in corridors, homes, and youth gatherings. He has built quiet alliances with thought leaders, community influencers, and young professionals. He is listening before he speaks, building before he shows, and understanding before he acts all qualities of a leader not in a hurry, but on a mission.
