Opinion: The Last Gasps Of A Fading Campaign: Diana Kampe’s Misguided Quest

By Tom Sebata

In the vibrant tapestry of Uganda’s political landscape, where the dreams of the youth clash with the hard edges of ambition, one candidate’s campaign is sputtering like a candle in the wind. Diana Kampe, once a contender in the race for National Female Youth MP, has resorted to tactics that reek of desperation, casting a shadow over her own aspirations. While Mercy Kanyesigye strides forward with a message of unity and empowerment, Diana’s campaign is unraveling, tangled in a web of her own making.

Mercy’s campaign, anchored by the Swahili slogan “Tuko Pamoja” (We are together), is a clarion call for progress, resonating from the dusty trails of Lyantonde to the vibrant streets of Kampala. Her vision is unambiguous: a Uganda where every young voice is heard, where opportunities flourish, and where dreams are not just whispered but realized. With the poise of a seasoned leader, Mercy has weathered storms of adversity—smear campaigns, baseless petitions, and whispers of scandal orchestrated by those who fear her unstoppable momentum. Yet, like a phoenix rising from ashes, she emerges stronger, her resolve unshaken, her message undimmed.

In stark contrast, Diana Kampe’s campaign has taken a darker turn, clinging to the coattails of Mercy’s rising star. Rather than forging her own path, Diana has chosen the low road, attempting to tarnish Mercy’s name with groundless accusations and malicious petitions. It is a classic case of trying to climb the ladder by pulling others down—a strategy as old as politics itself and as doomed as a ship without a rudder. Mercy is not her only victim. Diana has reportedly blackmailed the chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, Dr. Tanga Odoi; the National Vice Chairperson of the Patriotic League of Uganda, Toyota Kaguta; and the President’s Press Secretary, Mr. Farouk Kirunda, among others—all in a quest to remain relevant.

When weary delegates assembled at Kololo for the suspended NRM youth elections, Mercy stood tall before them and spoke words of unity and resilience: “I see you. Your sacrifices are our strength.” Diana, meanwhile, was conspicuously absent, her campaign mired in the quicksand of negativity.

The youth of Uganda deserve better than a candidate who seeks to ride the wave of another’s popularity. Diana’s tactics are nothing more than the last gasps of a fading campaign—a desperate attempt to stay afloat by slinging mud instead of sowing seeds of hope. As the adage goes, you cannot build a house on shifting sands. Her reliance on blackmail and smear campaigns is a house of cards, ready to collapse under the weight of its own falsehoods. Mercy, on the other hand, builds bridges with the stones thrown her way, turning adversity into opportunity with a grace that speaks volumes about her character.

To Diana Kampe, one word of counsel: the race for National Female Youth MP is not won by tearing others down but by lifting others up. Stop chasing shadows and start chasing votes. Engage the youth of Karamoja, Teso, and Buganda with a vision that inspires—not a vendetta that divides. As the proverb reminds us, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Focus on your own message, and let the delegates judge the strength of your ideas, not the weakness of your tactics.

For the youth delegates, the choice is clear. Mercy Kanyesigye is not just a candidate; she is a movement, a beacon of hope for a generation yearning for change. Diana Kampe’s campaign, faltering under the weight of its own missteps, is a lesson in what not to do. As ballots are cast, let the voice of the youth resound: choose Mercy Kanyesigye, who will stand tall. For with her, Uganda’s youth will not merely dream of a brighter future—they will build it, together and unstoppable.

Disclaimer: This article is an opinion piece reflecting the author’s analysis and perspective on the ongoing campaigns. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the official position of the publication, and all individuals mentioned are entitled to respond or clarify.