International Relations and Diplomacy student, Martin Ssentiba Ssempijja, has been declared winner of the Nkumba University Guild Presidential race, edging his closest rival in a tightly contested election.
Ssentiba scooped 465 votes, defeating National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer Makumai Deograciou Anyama, who garnered 431 votes. Koy Clinton Nasasira trailed with 241 votes. The results were announced by the Guild Electoral Commission Chairperson, Tumukuratire Eryabu, in what he described as a “peaceful but highly competitive” poll.
The margin of just 34 votes between Ssentiba and Anyama defined a race that remained too close to call until the final tally, with both camps maintaining strong grassroots mobilization efforts across campus.
Speaking shortly after his victory, Ssentiba struck a conciliatory tone, emphasizing unity and collective responsibility. “Thank you, thank you, thank you… This victory belongs to all of us, the students of Nkumba University,” he said. “We have had sleepless nights reaching out to every corner of this campus. Now the real task begins, to deliver on our promises, and I will need all hands on deck.”
Ssentiba’s win had been anticipated in part by pre-election opinion polls conducted by Nkumba University News, which placed him in a commanding lead. Analysts attributed his early momentum to his prompt declaration of candidacy and a campaign message anchored on student welfare, inclusivity, and strengthening the university’s external visibility.
His manifesto, which resonated with a broad section of the student body, prioritized improved internet connectivity, stronger engagement with university management, and a more inclusive campus environment.
During a recent televised debate on Kingdom TV, Ssentiba positioned himself as a pragmatic negotiator committed to bridging the gap between students and administration. “I am prepared to engage authorities constructively to ensure student welfare is not just discussed but acted upon.”
Political observers noted the midweek arrival of NRM strategists on campus as a potential game-changer in favor of Anyama. Yet, the three-way race, particularly the presence of Nasasira, appears to have split the vote in a manner that ultimately worked to Ssentiba’s advantage.
Despite the high stakes, voter turnout was lower than expected, with approximately 1,200 students turning up. The Students’ Electoral Commission had earlier urged compliance with voting requirements, including 20% tuition clearance and full enrolment on the student portal, conditions that some students cited as barriers to participation.
In recent years, the guild presidency has carried heightened expectations, with students increasingly demanding accountability, transparency, and tangible improvements in welfare.
Ssentiba now assumes office at a time when student leadership is under scrutiny, following mixed reactions to the outgoing administration of Mawanda Derrick, which some students criticized as being overly rigid in its approach to governance.
At 23, Ssentiba brings a track record of leadership, having previously served in various capacities, including head prefect and student leader on campus. His supporters describe him as articulate and strategic, qualities they believe will be essential in navigating the complexities of university governance.
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