By Mukembo Wilfred
The President of the Democratic Front, Rt. Hon. Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, has called upon residents of Masaka City and the wider Buddu region to rise above political differences as the country approaches the forthcoming general elections.

Mpuuga made the appeal while addressing congregants at Our Lady of Sorrows Cathedral–Kitovu during the Christmas Day Mass. He commended the Bishop of Masaka Diocese, Rt. Rev. Serverus Jjumba, for delivering a powerful homily that emphasized unity, reconciliation, and coexistence among the faithful as true sons and daughters of Buddu, irrespective of political affiliation or party colors.
He reminded the congregation that the election season is temporary and should never be used as a platform to divide communities or fuel hatred among the people of Masaka and the greater Buddu region. According to Mpuuga, peace and unity must always take precedence over political competition.

The Democratic Front leader also strongly condemned what he described as a growing and disturbing trend of abductions allegedly carried out by security agencies. He cited the recent case of Reverend Father Ssekabika of the Masaka Diocese, who was reportedly abducted and held incommunicado for more than ten days. Mpuuga described such acts as dehumanizing and unacceptable, stressing that violations of citizens’ rights by security forces should not be tolerated in a democratic society.
Additionally, Mpuuga urged voters to exercise maturity and caution during the electoral process, warning against making decisions driven by excitement or emotions. He encouraged the electorate to choose leaders based on competence, integrity, and the ability to effectively represent and advance the interests of the Buddu region.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Buddu Ssaza Chief, Owek. Pokino Jude Muleke, cautioned voters against being swayed by short-term excitement. He warned that poor leadership choices could expose the Buddu region to serious challenges in the next general election, emphasizing the need for thoughtful and informed decision-making.
