By Our Reporter
Uganda’s 2026 general elections are heating up with a wave of high-profile candidates — and this time, several women linked to celebrity partners are making headlines as they step into the political arena, adding a unique blend of glamour, influence, and intrigue to the campaign season.
Among the most talked-about aspirants is Phiona Nyamutoro, the current State Minister for Minerals and sitting National Female Youth MP. Married to award-winning singer Eddy Kenzo, Nyamutoro is seeking to represent Nebbi District as Woman Member of Parliament after completing her constitutional single term as youth MP.
Backed by her growing popularity, political experience, and the visibility of her celebrity marriage, Nyamutoro is seen as a formidable contender. She will go head-to-head with Agnes Acibu, the incumbent MP, also running on the NRM ticket.
Joining the political spotlight is Agnes Kirabo, the Central Region Youth MP and known partner to musician Mr. Lee (real name Richard Mugisha), a member of the B2C music trio. Kirabo is gunning for the Luwero District Woman MP seat, also under the ruling NRM party.
With a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Makerere University, Kirabo has previously worked at the NRM Secretariat and currently serves on the Parliamentary Committee on Trade, Tourism, and Industry. Her blend of academic grounding, youthful appeal, and star-connected profile could give her an edge in what is expected to be a competitive race.
Meanwhile, in Igara West, another youthful and vibrant contender, Mackline Asiimire Bareija, is also drawing attention. The former Vice Guild President of MUBS, now married to popular comedian Collins Emeka, famously known as Romantic Mukiga, is aiming to unseat established political figures with her fresh energy and grassroots approach.
The NRM primaries, scheduled for Thursday, July 17, are expected to be a litmus test for these celebrity-linked candidates. While authorities report largely peaceful campaigns, there have been isolated incidents of violence and defamation, according to police sources.
As Uganda moves closer to the 2026 general polls, these women are not only redefining the political landscape but also proving that fame, intellect, and ambition can intersect at the ballot box. Whether their star-powered appeal will translate into electoral victory remains to be seen — but one thing is certain: the road to Parliament has never looked this dramatic.