State Minister of Finance, Hon. Henry Musasizi, has urged both incumbent and aspiring politicians to avoid being misled by the illusion of social media popularity.
Instead, Minister Musasizi advised them to engage directly with voters on the ground.
Drawing from his resounding victory in Friday’s election for NRM Chairperson of Rubanda District, Minister Musasizi shared an example from his own experience. He recalled that one of his opponents, despite being highly active on social media, received no votes at all.
“One of those who contested against me got zero votes, and yet he is on social media 24/7. When he starts talking online, you would think the sky is falling. But all that energy translated into zero votes. Therefore, I encourage you, fellow politicians, to go slow on social media and instead reach out to the people,” Minister Musasizi said.
Although he did not mention any names, it is widely believed that he was referring to Counsel Jackson Tumweboneire, commonly known as “T.J” on Kabale-based WhatsApp forums. Tumweboneire received zero votes in the NRM Chairperson race.
According to the final results announced by Rubanda District NRM Returning Officer, Monday Aggrey, Tumweboneire garnered 0 votes, Diaz Owoyesigyire received 43 votes, while Minister Musasizi secured a commanding 503 votes and was declared the winner.
Minister Musasizi, who also serves as Rubanda East Member of Parliament, made the remarks on Saturday during the wedding ceremony of Kabale District Councilor Ronald Bagamuhunda and his wife Nina Rose, held at Kirigime Guest House in Kabale Municipality.
Speaking at the event, Minister Musasizi praised Bagamuhunda, describing him as a disciplined and hardworking young leader.
“I didn’t know Ronald until he joined politics, but I’ve come to know him as a disciplined and hardworking young man. He respects authority and listens to advice. I believe he has a very bright future ahead,” Minister Musasizi said.
Ndorwa East MP and Shadow Attorney General, Hon. Wilfred Niwagaba, echoed similar sentiments, describing Bagamuhunda as a promising leader. He revealed that both he and Minister Musasizi are mentoring the young councilor.
“Minister Musasizi and I are closely watching Bagamuhunda and giving him strategic guidance because we see him as a future top leader in this region,” Niwagaba said.
Also speaking at the event, Kabale District Woman MP, Hon. Catherine Atwakiire Ndamira, urged married couples to prioritize love and mutual respect.
“Always remember that your husband will always be your leader, give him the respect every man deserves. My dear daughter Nina Rose, never forget this, and your marriage will flourish,” she said.
Turning to the groom, she added affectionately in Rukiga, “Nakushaba, please. Nkundira omwana” (I beg you, love this girl). “When you love a woman, she gives you everything.”
