Written By |
Alhajj Hassan Basajjabalaba addressing the gathering
Search
By Our Reporter
Bushenyi
Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality MP aspirant Hajj Iddi Bassajabalaba has launched his manifesto, with a key focus on youth and women empowerment. The launch took place on 23rd June 2025 at St. Kagwa Boarding Primary School in Central Division, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality, and attracted thousands of supporters from across the constituency. Hajj Iddi Bassajabalaba stated that empowering women and youth is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating long-term development opportunities.
"When we empower our women and youth, we lay the foundation for a stronger, self-reliant community," he said.
Hajj Iddi Bassajabalaba in yellow Shirt addressing his supporters
Hajj Iddi Bassajabalaba, son of prominent businessman and Bushenyi District NRM Chairperson Alhajj Hassan Basajjabalaba, is contesting against Counsel Marvin Baryaruha and Counsel Nicholas Ndyakira.
He is seeking to succeed Derrick Kabuura Baimukye, the current MP, who is not seeking re-election.
Speaking during the event, Hajj Iddi emphasized the need to equip the youth and women with practical skills: "We are training our youth and women so they can start their own businesses and reduce unemployment in our communities," he said.
He also promised to improve service delivery by extending electricity, constructing protected springs, and lobbying for piped water to ensure clean water access.
"Everyone deserves safe water and power. That's why we've already begun work on these services in underserved areas," he added.
Odo, Kamugasha back Hajj Iddi
The event saw notable political shifts as former Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality MP Hon. Odo Tayebwa and former Municipality Mayor Jackson Kamugasha declared their support for Hajj Iddi Bassajabalaba.
Hon. Odo Tayebwa, a former FDC legislator and one-time Bushenyi District Speaker, said he is backing Hajj Iddi to advance meaningful development.
"I have full confidence in Hajj Iddi's leadership. He has the right vision for our people," Odo stated.
In the 2021 elections, Tayebwa, running on the FDC ticket, secured 5,898 votes, losing to NRM's Derrick Kabuura Baimukye, who garnered 8,199 votes. His endorsement is seen as a potential boost to Hajj Iddi’s campaign.
He also credited much of the municipality’s transformation to the establishment of Kampala International University (KIU) and its hospital, spearheaded by Alhajj Hassan Basajjabalaba.
"The development we've seen thanks to KIU is a model we need to expand," he said.
Former Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality Mp Odo Tayebwa addressing Iddi supporters at St. Kagwa playground
Kamugasha, who served as mayor for ten years, stepped aside from the mayoral race in 2020 to support his son Derrick Kabuura’s parliamentary bid. He now calls for leadership that can empower citizens through job creation and enterprise. "Our people need real opportunities, not empty promises. Hajj Iddi has the vision to deliver this," he noted.
“Choose leaders who care” – Alhajj Hassan Basajjabalaba
Bushenyi District NRM Chairperson Alhajj Hassan Basajjabalaba urged residents to vote for leaders who have stood by them through difficult times and who genuinely understand their challenges.
"I urge you to choose leaders who have walked with you, especially during tough times—not just when things are easy. We need leaders who truly care about your everyday struggles," he said.
Hajj Iddi Bassajabalaba supporters gathered at St Kaggwa play ground for his manifesto launch
He warned against voting based on religion:
"Religion should not be a factor. Let's vote for those who can serve all people fairly and equally," he said.
Central Division LCIII Chairperson Steven Karuti echoed the same sentiment: "Religious divisions slow us down. We need to focus on leaders who can deliver results," he emphasized.
The event featured vibrant entertainment from top Ugandan artists Ray G, Jose Chameleone, and comedian MC Kachaina, who kept the crowd in high spirits with their music and performances.
Torch Media Africa
