Hon. Richard Sebamala, Member of Parliament for Bukoto Central Constituency, in Masaka City has announced his bid for the presidency of the Democratic Party (DP), setting his sights on shaping Uganda’s political future ahead of the 2026 general elections. Hon. Sebamala, who rose to prominence after his remarkable victory over former Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi in the 2021 elections, has become a beacon of hope for his constituents and supporters across the nation.
Hon. Sebamala’s entry into politics disrupted the 26-year dominance of Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi in Bukoto Central. Hon. Ssekandi, whose tenure was often criticized for being ceremonial and detached from the needs of his electorate, faced growing discontent over his perceived inefficiency and failure to deliver meaningful development. In a decisive electoral upset, Sebamala secured 9,916 votes, defeating Hon. Ssekandi, who managed only 4,902. This victory marked a turning point, not only for Bukoto Central but also for Hon. Sebamala’s burgeoning political career.
Born to Cyrus Ndawula and Betty Nanyonga in Gulama village, Masaka District, Sebamala’s journey to political prominence is rooted in resilience and ambition. With a background as a seminarian and entrepreneur, he made his mark in retail, engineering, and construction before venturing into politics. His ability to connect with grassroots communities and his relentless campaign efforts endeared him to voters. Sebamala engaged directly with constituents, particularly the youth, through initiatives like the Ssebamala Cup football tournament, which fostered community spirit and involvement. His collaboration with influential figures in the Buganda Kingdom, including Prince David Kintu Wasajja, further solidified his standing as a leader who values tradition and community engagement.
Sebamala’s vision now extends beyond Bukoto Central as he prepares to contest for the leadership of the Democratic Party. With a rallying call centered on “hustle, loyalty, and respect,” Sebamala aims to address Uganda’s pressing issues, particularly poverty, while promoting inclusivity and strategic leadership. He has vowed to traverse all 18 regions of Uganda, strengthening Democratic Party structures and building a unified approach to tackling national challenges.
Hon. Sebamala’s bold ambitions and his track record of connecting with ordinary Ugandans have positioned him as a significant contender for the DP presidency. His ability to deliver tangible results and foster grassroots empowerment makes him a formidable force in Uganda’s political landscape. As the Democratic Party prepares for the 2026 elections, Sebamala’s transformative vision and unwavering commitment to progress could redefine both the party and Uganda’s future.
