In the heart of Uganda’s capital city, Kampala, lies Makerere University, a institution known for producing some of the country’s most influential leaders. This year’s guild presidential election is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent history, with two remarkable women, Hannah Karema Tumukunde and Kadondi Gracious, throwing their hats into the ring as the top contenders, though there are other candidates.
Hannah Karema, a stunning beauty pageant winner and Miss Uganda 2023, a Political Science student in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, has traded her crown for a chance to lead the student body. With a background in advocacy, particularly for girls’ education and against early marriages, Hannah brings a unique blend of charisma and substance to the table. Her campaign, dubbed “Reboot The Ivory Tower,” focuses on tangible issues like tuition policy reforms, increased support for government-sponsored students, and protection of campus political freedoms. As she walks across the campus, students can’t help but notice her infectious energy and dedication to the cause.
Kadondi Gracious, a third-year Optometry student at the College of Health Science, and NUP flagbearer, is leveraging her experience in student leadership to make a strong case for herself.
As a former Female Guild Representative and active participant in various student organizations, Kadondi has built a reputation as a dedicated and passionate advocate for student rights. Her calm demeanor and thoughtful approach to problem-solving have earned her respect from students and faculty alike.
The election, scheduled for April 9, is expected to draw significant attention, with over 30,000 students eligible to vote. Both candidates have been cramping the campaign trail, engaging with students and outlining their visions for the university’s future. From impassioned speeches in the close to intimate meet-and-greets in the hostels, Hannah and Kadondi are leaving no stone unturned in their bid for the top spot.
Hannah’s manifesto highlights the struggles of the average Makerere student, from inadequate daily allowances to limited academic support. She proposes concrete solutions, such as subsidized food court rents and supplementary exams for final-year students. Her experience as Miss Uganda has given her a platform to advocate for social causes, and she’s now applying that to student leadership. “I want to see a Makerere where every student feels represented, where every voice is heard, and where we work together to address the challenges facing our university,” she says.
Kadondi, backed by NUP, is focusing on issues like tuition policy reforms and increased student representation. Her campaign emphasizes the need for accountability and transparency in university management. “As a leader, I believe in empowering students to be agents of change. We need to create a university culture that values merit, promotes inclusivity, and supports the most vulnerable,” Kadondi says.
As the campaigns heat up, tensions are rising, with reports of clashes between supporters and concerns over unfair play. The university administration has urged students to prioritize peace and focus on the issues.
“This is a critical moment for our university. Let’s choose leaders who will serve with integrity and dedication,” says the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.
With voting just around the corner, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will emerge victorious? Will Hannah’s celebrity status and advocacy experience give her an edge, or will Kadondi’s NUP backing and student leadership track record propel her to victory? The students of Makerere University are poised to make history, and the world is watching.
As the sun sets over the iconic Main Building, students are gathering to discuss their hopes and fears for the future. In the cafeteria, groups of friends debate the merits of each candidate, their voices rising above the din of clashing cutlery. In the library, students pore over the candidates’ manifestos, searching for the perfect fit. And on the quad, the candidates themselves mingle with voters, shaking hands and making promises.
This is a moment of great possibility, a time when the students of Makerere University can shape the future of their institution and the country. Will they choose a leader who will shake things up, or one who will build on the progress of the past? The answer lies in the ballot box, and the world will be watching.
