Makerere University Guild President Churchill Ssentamu, who is also contesting for the Central Region Youth Member of Parliament (MP) seat, has explained why he decided to run as an independent candidate instead of using the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket — a choice that has stirred public debate given his family’s strong ties to the party.
Ssentamu, the son of Fred Nyanzi, commonly known as Chairman Nyanzi, and nephew to NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine, said his decision to leave out NUP symbols from his campaign materials was intentional.
According to him, the move is meant to unite young people across political divides rather than deepen partisan lines.
“Yes, there’s an umbrella, but they have to see me as a tent that brings everyone together — including those of the bus, the key, and others — so that we can move the youth in one direction,” Ssentamu said.
He added that his campaign colours symbolise inclusivity rather than allegiance to any single party.
“My words are in orange, my coat is blue, and my tie is red. It’s about unity, not party colours,” he noted.
This is not the first time Ssentamu has chosen to stand independently. During the Makerere Guild elections, he also ran without party backing, despite his family’s strong political background within NUP.
Ssentamu maintains that his independent approach is guided by a desire to bridge divisions among Uganda’s youth and focus on shared challenges such as unemployment, education, and inclusion.
“The most important thing is to bring everyone together,” he said.
