Okuonga Boniface Opiyo
Mawanda Derick, an independent candidate, has emerged victorious in the Nkumba University Guild Presidential election, securing 466 votes out of 1,172 ballots cast. The election results were announced by Atuna Sabrine Henry, the Chairperson of the 30th Guild Electoral Committee, on Saturday, April 26.
In a closely watched three-horse race, Mawanda Derick beat his closest rivals, Katende Muhammad and Alinda Marvin, who garnered 379 and 296 votes, respectively. The electoral committee declared Mawanda the winner after invalidating 31 votes out of the 1,172 ballots cast.
“We did not do this on our own, but it is by the power of God that we made it,” Mawanda said in his victory speech, surrounded by chanting and enthusiastic supporters. He expressed gratitude to his supporters for standing by him throughout the electoral process.
Katende Muhammad, who came second, congratulated Mawanda on his victory and thanked his supporters for their loyalty. “We always expect a winner in any election,” said Nusurah Hajarah, a staunch Katende fan, who expressed disappointment but accepted the outcome.
The election was marked by peace and calmness, with a few scuffles between rival camps during the results declaration. Kakooza William, the Guild Electoral Committee Vice Chairperson, thanked students for exhibiting high levels of discipline and exercising their right to vote. He congratulated Mawanda on his victory and praised the Uganda Police Force for maintaining law and order.
As the new Guild President, Mawanda has promised to work tirelessly for the betterment of students’ welfare, university sports teams, and technology. His manifesto emphasizes leadership “For the People,” and he has pledged to work inclusively with all students to achieve his goals.
