As Makerere University prepares for its 92nd Guild President election on Thursday, April 9, two names have clearly stood out among the 13 candidates: Gracious Kadondi and Hannah Karema Tumukunde.
While the race features a large field, it is Kadondi and Karema who have captured the most attention on campus, each building strong support and energising students ahead of what is shaping up to be a closely watched contest.
The Guild President role at Makerere is one of the most influential student leadership positions in Uganda. The office holder represents more than 35,000 students, engaging university management on key issues such as tuition, academic policies, student welfare, and campus life.
Over the years, the position has also served as a stepping stone to careers in politics, law, civil society, and public service.
Kadondi, a second-year Bachelor of Optometry student at the College of Health Sciences, is already an experienced student leader. She currently serves as the 91st Female Guild Representative for the School of Health Sciences and has previously held roles including Information Minister for the Optometry Students’ Association and class representative. She has also been involved in the Mak Wezuule Initiative at the college level.
Running on the National Unity Platform ticket, Kadondi secured her party’s flag after a competitive primary election, where she emerged winner with 580 votes. She is widely known for her strong stance on student welfare and her vocal opposition to restrictions on physical campaigning.
On the other side is Karema, a Political Science student in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, who brings a different kind of profile to the race. She first rose to national prominence after winning the Miss Uganda title and later becoming the first runner-up at Miss World Africa.
Karema is campaigning on a “pro-student” platform under the slogan “Reboot the Ivory Tower.” Her message focuses on improving student welfare, pushing for fair tuition policies, and advocating for greater political freedom on campus.
With both candidates offering distinct leadership styles and priorities, the upcoming election is attracting attention not only within the university but also from observers interested in Uganda’s next generation of leaders.
