A decade after the late Hon. Hussein Kyanjo's impactful tenure as Makindye West Member of Parliement, the constituency is once again at the center of a fierce political contest. Hon. Kyanjo, who passed away in 2023 after a long illness, was celebrated for his articulate defense of Buganda Kingdom’s interests and his criticism of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). His departure left big shoes to fill, which Hon. Allan Ssewanyana attempted to step into after winning the seat in 2016. Now, Ssewanyana faces stiff competition from Zahrah Maala Luyirika, signaling a new chapter in Makindye West’s dynamic political history.
Hon. Hussein Kyanjo’s legacy as a vocal advocate for Buganda's federal ambitions and critic of perceived regional imbalances in government remains etched in the constituency's memory. Before him, Yusuf Nsubuga Nsambu of the Conservative Party (CP) held the mantle, championing similar identity and governance issues. When Kyanjo retired from active politics, the question of his successor loomed large.
Hon. Allan Ssewanyana, then a Democratic Party (DP) councilor, rose to the occasion, known for his boldness during heated political moments, such as the 2013 impeachment of Kampala Lord Mayor Hon. Erias Lukwago.
Ssewanyana’s tenure has been marked by a mix of bravery and controversy. While he aligned himself with the Opposition’s causes, his time in Parliament has not achieved the ideological heights of his predecessors. In 2017, he stood firm against the controversial removal of presidential age limits, cementing his reputation as a fearless legislator. However, his recent stint in prison on charges of terrorism and murder has raised questions about his political future. Since his release, his reduced engagement in National Unity Platform (NUP) activities has fueled speculation about his next move, with rumors suggesting he might align with Lukwago’s People’s Front for Freedom (PFF).
Meanwhile, Zahrah Maala Luyirika, the Speaker of Kampala’s City Hall, has emerged as a strong contender. Riding on her experience in local governance and the backing of National Unity Platform, Luyirika is positioning herself as the fresh face Makindye West needs. Her criticism of Hon. Ssewanyana’s perceived disengagement and her calls for change resonate with some voters.
With Hon. Ssewanyana’s political allegiance in question and Luyirika rallying her supporters, Makindye West braces for a high-stakes duel as the 2026 general elections approach. The contest will likely test old alliances and reshape the constituency’s political landscape.
With all this in play, the big question that remains is – who will take on Makindye West come 2026
