The former chairman of Kiruhura District, Mr. Sedrack Nowomugisha Nzaire Kaguta, has accused some of his opponents of playing cheap politics by claiming he shouldn’t run for NRM Vice Chairman for Western Uganda simply because he is President Museveni’s brother. Mr. Nzaire is running for Vice Chairman of Western Uganda, a position that puts him on the NRM Central Executive Committee, the party's top decision-making body. Our reporter caught up with him for this exclusive interview.
KP: Let’s start with what motivated you to contest for this position and what you bring to the table
Nzaire: I am driven by NRM Principle Number One—patriotism. Ever since I completed school, I have been serving my party and country. I have never done any other job, and now I want to serve my party at a higher level. Also, as NRM chairman for Kiruhura District for 20 years, my party consistently secured the highest votes compared to other districts. I now want to apply my mobilization tactics across Western Uganda to strengthen the party further.
KP: How has the campaign been so far? Are delegates supporting you?
Nzaire: The ground is very fertile for me. I have traveled nationwide, and many delegates believe I’m the only candidate—some even think I’m unopposed, which is a good sign.
KP: We’ve seen videos of delegates endorsing you. Is this support nationwide or limited to Ankole?
Nzaire: My support is nationwide, but some of my supporters prefer to avoid the media. We don’t have to reveal all our tactics, but the backing is massive.
KP: You plan to replicate Kiruhura’s success across Western Uganda. How?
Nzaire: I have a proven formula: mobilization and staying connected to the people. Many leaders disappear after elections, but I understand local structures better than any of my opponents—from districts down to villages. This is because I have been involved in grassroots politics for 30 years of my life.
KP: With voting approaching, how do you assess your chances?
Nzaire: I’ve covered 70% of the country and am confident of winning by over 85%. Feedback suggests a landslide—I’ve campaigned in Acholi, Lango, Masaka, and Ankole, and I’m still moving. I will also have a chance to share my message with delegates when they convene at Kololo.
KP: Why do you think you will win with such a huge margin?
Nzaire: My 20 years as district chairman gave me unmatched insight into local challenges. I’ve told delegates we must strengthen structures—logistics, communication, and feedback loops between CEC and the masses. We can’t keep doing postmortems; we must be proactive. And I am happy that they believe in my plan.
KP: How will you tackle these complex challenges?
Nzaire: My key strategy is merging public service with NRM. Public servants implement our manifesto, so we must supervise them—not as a show, but to ensure delivery. The ruling party must be hands-on.
KP: Any last words for the public?
Nzaire: I want to clarify: being born into the Kaguta family doesn’t strip me of political rights. Some of my opponents say Nzaire is Museveni’s brother; he shouldn’t be vice chairman. But why didn’t they protest my 20-year winning record in Kiruhura? Why didn’t Ugandans complain when two Kaguta sons [Museveni and Gen. Saleh] were at the bush war frontline?
KP: Elaborate more—have you faced disadvantages as a candidate because you are from the Kaguta family?
Nzaire: Yes, as I’ve said, some opponents play the politics of identity. Instead of explaining their plans, they go around saying I am Museveni’s brother. This is my country—where else should I contest, Congo or Tanzania? President Museveni belongs to all Ugandans; I don’t even claim to be his brother. The only siblings I claim with authority are Gen. Saleh, Toyota, and others. Museveni is for everyone. People should also know that you can’t stay under someone’s armpits. I am a 50-year-old man, and I should be seen to be acting independently and not because I am anyone’s brother.
