Masaka, Uganda – Once a towering figure in Ugandan politics, former ICT Minister Alintuma Nsambu has been forced to abandon his political comeback in Bukoto East after encountering fierce resistance from constituents who have not forgotten his controversial past. Nsambu, who served as MP for Bukoto East and Minister for ICT between 2006 and 2011, has been a polarizing figure in Masaka politics, particularly due to his strained relationship with the Buganda Kingdom, a key political and cultural institution in the region.
Nsambu’s political downfall began during his tenure as MP when he was accused of making statements deemed disrespectful to the Kabaka of Buganda and the kingdom itself. His alleged role in the revocation of CBS FM, a popular Buganda radio station, further cemented his image as an adversary of the kingdom. The station, which was critical of the government at the time, spent years off the air, and Nsambu was widely blamed for its closure. This alienated him from a significant portion of the electorate, particularly the older generation who remain loyal to the Buganda Kingdom.
After losing his seat in Bukoto East, Nsambu retreated from the political scene, biding his time for a potential comeback. Early last year, he surprised many by announcing his intention to contest again in the constituency he once represented. He embarked on a charm offensive, attending funerals, church services, and community events, doling out money in an attempt to win back the hearts of voters. However, his efforts have been met with hostility.
Nsambu has been repeatedly chased away from public gatherings, including funerals, by constituents who remain bitter over his perceived betrayal of Buganda. The political landscape in Bukoto East has also shifted significantly since his last term. The majority of voters are now young people who view Nsambu as a relic of the past, while the older generation, who might have been more forgiving, remain deeply resentful of his actions against the kingdom.
A Strategic Retreat
This website has learned that Nsambu has now decided to withdraw from the race altogether. A close coordinator from his campaign team in Buwunga, Bukoto East, confirmed that Nsambu recently held a meeting with his team and informed them of his decision to step aside. According to the coordinator, Nsambu cited advice from “big people” in government who urged him to abandon the race in favor of a younger NRM candidate who could “liberate” the constituency from the opposition.
The current MP for Bukoto East, Kanyike Ronald of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has also been struggling to maintain his grip on the seat. Kanyike, who rode to victory on the wave of NUP’s popularity in the 2021 elections, has been accused of losing touch with his constituents. Many of the “foot soldiers” who campaigned for him claim he has abandoned them and failed to deliver on promises of development. Additionally, Kanyike has been criticized for his lackluster performance in Parliament, where he has rarely spoken on issues affecting his constituency.
Compounding Kanyike’s woes is a falling-out with his father, Mr. Kaye, a prominent Masaka businessman who bankrolled his 2021 campaign. The elder Kaye has publicly accused his son of neglecting his duties as MP, spending most of his time in Kampala instead of addressing the needs of his constituents. He has also alleged that Kanyike failed to repay the money invested in his campaign and has vowed not to support him in the 2026 elections.
A Wide-Open Race
With Nsambu’s withdrawal and Kanyike’s declining popularity, the race for Bukoto East is wide open. Another potential contender, Kityo Sarah, who carried the NRM flag in the 2021 elections, is also facing significant challenges. Kityo, who was once seen as a strong candidate, has been embroiled in scandal after being sacked as president of a local federation over allegations of bribery and misappropriation of funds. She is currently battling criminal charges in court, which have severely damaged her reputation and eroded public trust.
Last week, Kityo was summoned to Masaka Court over allegations that she failed to repay a 100 million shilling loan from a local businessman, Richard Kimera, who funded her 2021 campaign. With her legal troubles and tarnished image, Kityo’s chances of mounting a successful campaign in 2026 appear slim.
The race is now shaping up to be a contest between the embattled Kanyike Ronald and Kalema Fred Pax, the current deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Bukomansimbi. Kalema has been actively engaging with constituents, organizing football galas, and donating seeds and seedlings to farmers in a bid to win their support. If he secures the NRM flag, Kalema could pose a serious threat to NUP’s hold on the constituency.
As the 2026 general elections approach, Bukoto East is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched constituencies in Uganda. With Nsambu out of the race, Kanyike struggling to maintain support, and Kityo’s campaign in disarray, the stage is set for a fierce battle that could see NUP lose yet another stronghold.
Efforts to reach Alintuma Nsambu and Kityo Sarah for comment were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to calls made to their known phone numbers.
