Inside Museveni vs Kutesa Subplot in Mawogola Race

The Political Rivalry Between Kutesa and Museveni

The political relationship between Sam Kutesa and President Yoweri Museveni has a long and complex history. Their rivalry began in the 1980 General Election, where they first faced off as political opponents. This historical context is crucial to understanding the current dynamics in Mawogola North Constituency.

A Shift in Political Dynamics

In mid-2024, Godfrey Aine Kaguta, known as Sodo, was confident of joining Parliament in 2026. His optimism stemmed from the withdrawal of Shartsi Musherure Kutesa, daughter of former Foreign Affairs Minister Sam Kutesa, from the race to defend her seat. This move was intended to prevent intra-party violence within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Many of Musherure’s supporters were caught off guard by her decision, leaving no time to nominate another candidate. As a result, Sodo easily won the NRM primary without opposition.

However, this victory was short-lived when Jet John Tumwebaze, a lawyer, entered the race as an independent candidate. Tumwebaze claimed he had initially waited for Musherure to run again, citing her competence as an MP. He argued that she was the most capable representative in the country, both in legislation and monitoring government services. His slogan, Goberera, resonated with many voters in Mawogola North.

Accusations of Unfitness

Tumwebaze accused the potential winner of being unqualified, stating that the person could not read or write. He questioned how such an individual could participate in law-making and explain it to the people of Mawogola North. Sodo, on the other hand, claimed that his participation in the NRM primary had been approved by President Museveni and other authorities, though he did not name them.

In 2020, Sodo had positioned himself as the successor of long-term Mawogola North legislator, Sam Kutesa. However, their relationship dates back to the 1980 General Election, where Kutesa, then 31 years old, stood against Museveni in the Mbarara North constituency, now known as Nyabushozi.

Historical Context of the 1980 Elections

The 1980 elections were significant as they were the first organized after Uganda’s independence. Kutesa, representing the Democratic Party (DP), faced Museveni, who was running under the Uganda People’s Movement (UPM). Critics argue that the elections were marked by sectarianism and religious undertones, particularly in the Mbarara North race.

Museveni alleged gerrymandering, claiming that the constituencies were manipulated to favor his party. He even filed a petition in the High Court in Kampala, listing 10 grounds for annulment. However, in his memoirs, Museveni suggested that his group was not serious about the election outcomes.

After losing, Museveni went into the bush, eventually emerging victorious and re-establishing ties with Kutesa, who had been appointed Attorney General by the Junta regime of Tito Okello Lutwa. Kutesa later shifted his focus to Mawogola, where he became a dominant figure.

The Influence of Family Ties

Kutesa’s political influence extended beyond his own career. His relationship with Museveni was further solidified when his daughter, Charlotte Nankunda, married Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the President’s son. This marriage complicated Sodo’s political ambitions in Mawogola North, as Kutesa planned to retire in 2020, with his daughter Musherure seeking to replace him.

During the 2021 elections, Sodo defeated Musherure in an NRM primary, but Museveni intervened to prevent a family conflict. Both candidates ran as Independents, using symbols like bicycles and balls. Despite this, Musherure won the election with a significant margin.

The Role of Muhoozi

Gen Muhoozi, the Chief Defence Forces (CDF), played a key role in supporting Musherure. He emphasized her reliability and trustworthiness, stating that she was a twin sister to his wife. With Sodo stepping down, Musherure secured her position as the MP for Mawogola North.

The Future of Mawogola North

Musherure has positioned herself as a leader rather than a politician, emphasizing the need for collective leadership focused on the common good. Her campaign highlighted the importance of unity and shared goals for the benefit of the people of Mawogola North.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the legacy of Kutesa and Museveni remains a defining factor in the region’s dynamics. The upcoming elections will be closely watched, with the potential for new developments in this historically significant area.