Presidential hopefuls face off in Kampala as Uganda marks World Aids Day

1 December 2025, 11:14 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Uganda’s presidential candidates yesterday met at Serena Hotel in Kampala for a debate organised by the Nation Media Group. The moderators, Arnold Segawa and Priscilla Nalwoga, allowed each candidate to give opening remarks before the discussion began.

Some people were not impressed by the debate. Kampala Central MP Muhammad Nsereko said it looked more like a revision session than a real debate. He said the candidates were reading from scripts and seemed prepared in advance.

President Yoweri Museveni did not attend. The candidates who were present included Frank Bulira, Nandala Mafabi, Robert Kyagulanyi, Mugisha Muntu, Kasibante Robert, Joseph Mabirizi and Mubarak Munyagwa.

When asked if they would support Robert Kyagulanyi in the race, the candidates responded differently. Mugisha Muntu said ANT is open to discussions and possible cooperation with NUP. Frank Bulira said Kyagulanyi has contributed to the struggle but argued that he himself is better placed to lead the country. Nandala Mafabi said popularity through music or other means cannot determine who is the best leader. Joseph Mabirizi said he has met Kyagulanyi several times and invited him for cooperation but never received a clear response.

All the candidates said they believe they can lead Uganda if elected on 15 January 2026.

Today, Uganda joins the world in marking International AIDS Day. Recently, during the Philly Bongole Lutaaya Day, the Uganda AIDS Commission Director General, Dr Nelson Musoba, said Uganda has made progress but still needs more effort to reduce new infections and fight stigma. Rt Rev. Sheldon Mwesigwa also urged religious and community leaders to support HIV prevention and care so that Uganda can achieve the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.