Wenepaida Hellen Patience
A charged atmosphere filled Nkumba University Guild gardens yesterday, April 25, 2025, as hundreds of students gathered for the open-air guild presidential campaigns — a critical moment ahead of tomorrow’s vote. The event was marked by confusion, delays, emotional tantrums, and assertions from the three Guild Presidential Candidates: Katende Muhammad, Alinda Marvin, and Mawanda Derrick.
The program was off to a rocky start, with all three aspirants initially absent due to separate rallies. However, when Katende Muhammad finally arrived at 4:47 PM, he addressed the students with conviction, focusing on the daily struggles faced by the university community. “Tomorrow is only for people who have prepared for it today,” he said, urging students to trust in his leadership style.
The energy shifted with the arrival of Alinda Marvin, flanked by supporters and local artist Beenie Gunter. Marvin paid tribute to a fellow student, Sam, who had passed on just a day earlier, and then laid out his vision to rebrand the Nkumba Guild and transform the university’s image. “This is our time to rebrand Nkumba, boost sports, embrace culture, and advertise our university like never before,” he said.
The final speaker, Mawanda Derrick, emphasized servant leadership, stating, “We believe that leadership should be about the people, not the individuals.” He outlined plans to revamp the university’s sports sector and create an inclusive environment where every student feels seen and heard.
Despite the initial confusion, the event reflected the spirited energy of Nkumba’s student democracy. With campaign songs, emotional tributes, and manifesto pledges echoing across the campus, each candidate delivered a message meant to rally, inspire, and win over their fellow students.
As Nkumba University heads into the final vote today, the student body faces a decisive moment. With clear visions from each of the three aspirants, the question remains: whose leadership will they trust to carry their voices forward? Only the ballots will tell.
