By Frank Kamuntu
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has made an unexpected move by nominating musician Mukiibi Sadat, widely known as Kalifa Aganaga, as their official candidate for the Kawempe North by-election. The announcement came during a press briefing at the party’s headquarters in Najjanankumbi, where FDC president Patrick Amuriat spoke about the party’s decision-making process, acknowledging that there were initial hesitations regarding the choice.
Amuriat remarked that despite early doubts, FDC was confident in Aganaga’s potential. “We have spoken to our brother Aganaga, and we have learned that beneath those deadlocks, there is a competent leader, a great human,” Amuriat shared, adding a touch of humor by recalling his youthful wish to grow dreadlocks, which elicited laughter from the gathered audience. His comment reflected the FDC’s relaxed yet determined approach to nurturing fresh political talent.
The FDC leadership, including Robert Centenary, the party’s deputy president for Western Uganda, defended the choice, noting Aganaga’s impressive academic credentials and his potential to inspire youth. Centenary further drew a parallel to the late Muhammad Segirinya, a popular figure who became a significant political force.
“The few hours I spent with Mukiibi Sadat impressed me—his conduct, his academic credentials. Sometimes we judge people at face value. I believe he is an inspiration to young people,” Centenary stated, reinforcing the idea that FDC’s track record of cultivating leaders was in safe hands.
Kalifa Aganaga, the CEO of Bad Character Records, has had a public history of engaging in political matters, though he previously faced a setback in 2021 when he was denied a National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket for the Rubaga South seat, which was instead awarded to Aloysius Mukasa, the current Member of Parliament for the area. Despite that, Aganaga has remained vocal about his political ambitions, expressing his openness to working with anyone who shares his vision for Uganda’s future. This new nomination marks a significant turning point in his career as he steps into the political arena with FDC’s backing.
In addition to Aganaga’s candidacy, FDC also confirmed Sharif Ssebunya as the party’s candidate for the vacant Kazo-Angola Ward councillor seat, further demonstrating the party’s commitment to fielding diverse candidates at multiple levels of governance.
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