Okuonga Boniface Opiyo
In a fiercely contested election, Mawanda Derick emerged victorious as the new Guild President of Nkumba University, securing 466 votes in a field of three candidates. The independent candidate’s win was announced by Atuna Sabrine Henry, Chairperson of the 30th Guild Electoral Committee, on Saturday, April 26.
Mawanda’s closest rivals, Katende Muhammad and Alinda Marvin, garnered 379 and 296 votes, respectively. Out of 2,500 printed ballots, 1,172 were cast, with 30 invalid votes. In his victory speech, Mawanda attributed his win to divine intervention, saying, “It is not by mistake that we are here, we did not do this on our own but it is by the power of God that we made it.”
The newly elected Guild President expressed gratitude to his supporters, who chanted and cheered in celebration at a party hosted at the Boardroom Gardens. Mawanda’s victory is seen as a mandate for change, with students eagerly awaiting the implementation of his campaign promises, including bettering student welfare, improving university sports teams, and enhancing technology.
Katende Muhammad, on the other hand, conceded defeat and congratulated Mawanda on his win and thanked his supporters for their loyalty. “We always expect a winner in any election,” said Nusurah Hajarah, a staunch Katende supporter, who accepted the outcome with dignity.
The electoral process was marked by utmost peace, despite a few scuffles between rival supporters during the results declaration. Kakooza William, Vice Chairperson of the Guild Electoral Committee, commended students for their discipline and calmness during the exercise. He also thanked the Uganda Police Force for maintaining law and order.
As Mawanda prepares to take office, students are optimistic about the future, given his commitment to inclusive leadership. “We look forward to tremendous transformation under his leadership,” said Kyeyune Fred, a Mawanda supporter. With a clear vision and a mandate from the students, Mawanda Derick is poised to make a meaningful impact on campus life
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