A wave of political transformation is sweeping across Rukiga District following Edmund Atusasire’s declaration to contest for the LC5 Chairmanship in the upcoming National Resistance Movement (NRM) Party primaries.
Known widely as “Researcher,” Atusasire’s entry into the race has ignited a sense of optimism and renewal among voters. Many now hail him as a “Game Changer,” a title reflecting the growing momentum behind his grassroots campaign and progressive vision for the district.
Since launching his bid, Atusasire has taken a hands-on approach meeting voters at the grassroots, sharing his manifesto, and educating the electorate about the NRM roadmap. His campaign is deeply anchored in the core principles of the NRM: Patriotism, Pan-Africanism, Socio-economic Transformation, and Democracy.
He sees these pillars not just as slogans, but as guiding values that hold the key to sustainable progress and effective governance.
“The journey ahead may be demanding and full of challenges,” Atusasire said, “but I am committed to seeing it through to the very end. With your support and unity, we can walk this path together and achieve our shared vision for a better Rukiga.”
Atusasire’s vision centers on strengthening service delivery, promoting inclusive development, empowering youth and women, and ensuring transparency and accountability in district leadership.
His goal is to align district governance with the NRM’s broader development agenda while fostering unity and integrity in leadership.
“I am not just standing as a candidate,” he added, “but as a son of Rukiga, committed to listening, learning, and leading with integrity. Change begins with belief, and belief begins with us. Together, let’s build a legacy of progress and inclusive leadership.”
Who is Edmund Atusasire?
Born on Bucundura Hill in Kashambya Sub-county, Atusasire’s journey is one of resilience and determination. From humble beginnings, he rose through the ranks of education, earning a Bachelor of Commerce from Makerere University, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Management from the Uganda Management Institute and an MBA from Makerere University graduating among the 1,813 master’s recipients at the university’s 75th graduation ceremony.
Atusasire first entered the political arena in 2014 when he contested in the NRM primaries for the Rukiga County parliamentary seat. Though unsuccessful, his passion for leadership and community development remained undeterred. Today, his renewed candidacy for LC5 Chairperson is seen as a bold move to address the leadership gaps currently affecting Rukiga District.
Outside politics, Atusasire is recognized for his philanthropic work. He has actively supported vulnerable families, provided school fees for underprivileged children, and championed causes that uplift the community. His generosity and accessibility have earned him deep respect across the district.
Atusasire’s bid comes at a time when Rukiga District’s leadership is under scrutiny. The incumbent LC5 Chairperson, Robert Mbabazi Kakwerere, has faced criticism from within his own ranks, including from his recently sacked Vice Chairman, Samuel Niwandinda, who accused him of failing to provide public accountability.
