Top Ten Highlights of Mzee Wakazi’s Campaign Trail So Far

By Coach Gad

The People's Love for His Excellency President Yoweri Museveni

Ugandans continue to show immense love for their beloved "old man with a heart of gold." Massive, never-before-seen crowds in West Nile and parts of Lango are a clear indication of this affection. If elections were held today, Mzee would win with a commanding 75%. I eagerly anticipate the next regions on the trail, what a time to be alive! As Gen. Muhoozi tweeted early this year, “In this last rodeo of Mzee let’s show him our gratitude with an 80% vote”.

The Calm Roar of the Peaceful Lion

The steady leadership of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba in ensuring security for all Presidential Candidates has been nothing short of admirable. I recently watched a video of a musician lamenting, “What kind of election is this with no kavuyo, no tear gas?” It made me chuckle and recall a tweet confirming and guaranteeing security for all candidates that might have been missed by the comedic musician. Big kudos to the CDF and our security forces for ensuring a peaceful campaign period thus far.

Dance Moves that Light Up the Trail

This campaign season has also been entertaining, thanks to some impressive dance moves from NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, Government Chief Whip Hamson Dennis Obua, and Speaker of Parliament Anita Among. On Mzee’s swearing-in day, I propose a Lingala dance-off to Koffi Olomide’s 90s classic Papa Plus. It would be an old-school celebration reminiscent of my early childhood memories of Malwa joints back in the day after our parents had returned home from a long day’s work. I might even recruit my good friend Nobert Mao to help me bring the heat to that trio!

Balaam Barugahara: The Mobilizer Extraordinaire

Hon. Minister Balaam’s ground mobilization skills and authentic connection with the youth are unmatched. His rallies are not only vibrant but also focused on community engagement and accountability for government programs like PDM and GROW. The “Youth Awake” rallies have reawakened belief in NRM programs aimed at uplifting young people from poverty. The visible overwhelming numbers of Bazukulu attending Jaja’s rallies is a culmination of some of these events too. The NRM indeed has the antidote for the Bazukulu under Museveni. Hats off to Hon. Balaam — keep the fire burning.

The Passionate Self-Proclaimed “Mama Janet Museveni”

One standout campaign supporter has gained attention for passionately channeling the spirit of First Lady Maama Janet Museveni. Her love and admiration for Mzee’s leadership echo the sentiments of millions of Ugandans. Every time I see her, I’m reminded of the 1996 elections and the passionate support for Mzee against the late Paul Kawanga Ssemogerere displayed by mother. Women like her, both young and old are traversing the country, guarding the gains and reminding us how far we’ve come. I could name some, but the list is long. You are seen and your efforts are valued and appreciated!

A Campaign Song for the Ages

The campaign anthem Yoweri by Edgar, Oscar & Daph’s featuring Grammy winner Eddy Kenzo is the perfect soundtrack for this trail. Rhythmic, fact-filled, and catchy, it resonates deeply with Ugandans. This song will go down in history as one of the most iconic campaign anthems ever.

The Famous Salute

One of the most touching moments of the campaign so far was the viral image of Mzee Wakazi exchanging a salute with a veteran soldier. The humility in that moment, two men acknowledging each other’s sacrifices for Uganda was powerful. It was a true gesture of honor and respect from the President to the everyday heroes of our nation.

The PLU Effect

The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) has played a key role in reconnecting millions of young people to the NRM and sparking essential conversations about Uganda’s future and eventual transition. Uganda has never had a peaceful transition of power, but under the guidance of the generational leader of our time, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the spirit of sacrifice, unity, and patriotism is on the rise. A new dawn is truly on the horizon.

The Unwavering Support of First Lady Maama Janet Museveni

Maama Janet Museveni has not only stood beside Mzee on the campaign trail but continues to support him in both state and spiritual matters. The Kenyan proverb, “A woman's strength is not in her muscles but in her heart,” perfectly encapsulates Maama’s dedication and grace. Her strength, seen and unseen, fuels this campaign.

The Battle for the Remaining 20%

While Kyagulanyi Robert Sentamu seems to command 12–15% of the undecided vote, the scramble for the rest has been chaotic. Complaints from some candidates about funding, weak manifestos, and poor turnout raise serious questions. Are they truly fighting to lift Ugandans out of poverty or merely chasing the perks of the struggle? I’ve even heard murmurs about IPOD money. As the campaign intensifies, time will tell who is genuinely committed to the task. I predict that by January 15th we will have one or two candidates drop out of the race.

In conclusion, Mzee Wakazi’s campaign trail has so far been both inspiring and unifying. It has reminded many of Uganda’s journey, its sacrifices, and the importance of steady leadership. May this trail continue to be peaceful, impactful, and full of joy.

The author is a diaspora cadre of NRM/PLU and proud supporter of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.