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Bushenyi district woman Mp Annet Katusiime Mugisha kneeling before Ibaare Sub-county voters
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Political Desk
Since the beginning of this week, National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) Managing Director Dr. Silver Mugisha — husband to Bushenyi District Woman MP Annet Katusiime Mugisha — has been meeting youth groups across the district, urging them to back his wife ahead of the 2026 elections.
This is part of a wider political strategy in Bushenyi, where youth and women are increasingly seen as the most influential voting blocs.
Silver Mugisha meeting Bushenyi District youth leaders
Youth and Women: The Numbers Behind the Power
Bushenyi District has a population of 230,884, according to District Planner Dickson Bamusiime, with women making up 54.6 percent. Using the national youth proportion of 22.7% for the 18–30 age group, the district has an estimated 52,400 young people eligible to vote. Together, these two groups form the backbone of any winning campaign.
Rising Tensions in Bushenyi Politics
In the recent NRM primaries, Annet Katusiime Mugisha narrowly defeated challenger Vianah Kemigisha with 69 percent of the vote. However, allegations persist that electoral officials were bribed to tilt the results in her favor. For many youth, Kemigisha is a down-to-earth leader. They describe her as approachable, attentive, and closer to their daily struggles than the established political class. Her rising popularity among young voters now poses a real challenge to the incumbent.
Empty Promises
In Ibaare Subcounty, where Dr. Silver and Annet Katusiime recently promised water and electricity extensions, frustrations run high.
“They came here in 2020 and promised water for every village. Nothing has been done. Instead, they hand out 500,000 shillings per village, and each attendee walks away with 800. What kind of leadership is that?” said one resident, who preferred anonymity. Such complaints highlight the gap between campaign promises and actual service delivery — a recurring grievance in Bushenyi politics.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the 2026 elections draw closer, one fact is clear: youth and women hold the keys to victory. Politicians know this, which is why resources, promises, and attention are increasingly being channeled their way.
Torch Media Africa
