November 14, 2025, was a beehive of activities as Democratic Front (DF) paralyzed Masaka City during President Mathias Mpuuga’s re-election campaign launch, showcasing a vibrant celebration of support for their super leader
The atmosphere in Masaka was electric as thousands of jubilant supporters gathered to witness a large political event. From his home in Soweto, Mpuuga’s convoy faced an unexpected challenge as they navigated through the enthusiastic crowd which desired to walk him to the rally ground.
What would typically be a swift seven-minute drive transformed into an hour-long journey, with DF supporters filling the streets, trekking alongside their leader, and breaking into catchy songs praising Mpuuga, a founding figure of the party that has firmly established its presence in Greater Masaka.
Alongside Mpuuga in the convoy were prominent local and visiting DF leaders, who proudly hold the party flags at both parliamentary and local government levels. Among those who flanked him were Anena Kevin (deputy president North), Pascal Amuriat (Deputy president, Eastern), Haji Abdnoor Kyamundu (deputy president, Buganda).
Several MP candidates including David Musiri (Makidye West), Winfred Nakandi (Nakawa East), Nakyanja Annet (Wakiso District Woman representative), Moses Kasibante (Lubaga Division Mayor), Samuel Lubega Mukaaku (Lubaga South), Flavia Nakafeero (Wakiso district chairperson), Grace Nakanwagi, Bukenya Mubaraka (Mbarara City East), and Kakembo Mbwatekamwa (Ntebbe Municipality).
Others were Zahara NalubyayiTalidda (Bukoto East), Happy Nasasira (Nakawa West), Kintu Mathias (Kalungu East), Aciro Ruth, Okello Samuel George (Gulu East), Dr Emali Joseph Mbago (Buzaaya constituency), Ayinebyona (Lwemiyaga), Nakitende Adelaide Salaama (Kampala Woman MP), Nakuya Aidah (Kampala Central), Matovu Birimuye (Kalungu West), Mawanda Allan (Mukono Municipality), Aisha Waliggo (Kalungu district woman representative), and Maurice Mukiibi (Mawogowa South).
Party Secretary General Michael Mabikke also party flag bearer in Makindye East, and Women League leader Kakande Juliet Nakabuye also joined the leaders above among others in playing an instrumental in rallying supporters and showcasing the unity and strength of the DF at the rally, which took place just after 3:00 PM.
DF Leader Arrives
As Mpuuga finally arrived at the rally ground, he was met with a resounding welcome from his supporters, who waved tree branches high in the air, amplifying the party’s Mahogany tree symbol.
The cheers from the crowd echoed the community’s unwavering support for Mpuuga, who has been recognized as a cornerstone in Masaka’s rapid development over the past five years.
Kyamundu, one of the DF leaders, spoke passionately about the need for unity within the DF, emphasizing the importance of standing firm against any divisive forces that threaten the party and its vision for the people.
Kasibante, another strong voice at the rally, echoed these sentiments, urging the constituents to rally behind Mpuuga in his quest to uplift the people of Masaka. Mabikke and Kakande also took to the stage, reinforcing the party’s message to the vibrant crowd.
Campaign Launch Speech
When it was his turn to speak, Mpuuga who was in campamy of his wife Maria Mpuuga, delivered a powerful 15-minute address, clearly articulated and composed, even in the face of provocation from rival politicians prior his rally.
He divided his message into four parts, first recognizing the DF’s impressive strides in establishing leadership structures across the country, ensuring that the party remains a viable option for generations to come.
He thanked the people of Masaka for their enduring support, stating, “I would like to appreciate you all for representing others performing different productive duties.”
Mpuuga also addressed the recent unfounded attacks on him and the institutions of Buganda Kingdom. He cautioned the youth against being pawns in political squabbles, asserting that “Our Kingdom is not going to end now because of the political squabbles of today.”
He warned that the people should stop abusing one another due to politics and instead unite to face the long-standing challenges.
The DF leader conveyed his determination, using personal anecdotes to illustrate his strength and resilience against opportunistic politicians and the complaints directed at him thus forgetting about the battle to unseat the long-serving Yoweri Museveni.
“Because we have been ruled over by one family for 40 years of mockery, strong and focused men and women must emerge from your midst and ask questions,” he urged the people, emphasizing their collective responsibility to foster positive change.
Mpuuga shared his reflections on political cooperation amongst the opposition, expressing no ill will towards fellow politicians, including Robert Kyagulanyi, the ring leader.
“Let me tell you, as an individual, I do not have a grumble even on my young brother Kyagulanyi,” he stated.
He encouraged understanding and collaboration among the people, underscoring the importance of evaluating leadership with integrity.
On the topic of his presidential candidacy, Mpuuga clarified why he chose not to run for president in the upcoming elections.
He stressed that leadership requires thoughtful reflection and not merely a reaction to political pressure.
Furthermore, he addressed concerns about party support for a presidential candidate, affirming that the DF would ultimately reveal its chosen path, while reiterating the party’s primary challenge lies with the current regime.
In a moment of reflection on his political journey, Mpuuga chose to deflect engagement with those who provoke petty rivalries, particularly pointing to Mukono Municipality’s Betty Nambooze.
“Therefore, treat those petty fights as childish. However, you should be worried about Buganda’s children with capabilities being bewitched to get diverted from big issues and normalize trivial issues,” he cautioned, hinting at the broader threats that distract from serious political discussions between the people and their leaders to get workable solutions.
The day culminated with a fervent display of support from the crowd for Mpuuga and the DF, as constituents expressed their faith in their leader’s vision for Masaka and beyond.
The event not only marked a successful campaign launch for Mpuuga but also represented a rallying cry for unity, strength, and perseverance in the face of adversity, showing that the foundations of leadership lie in the community’s collective effort.
