DP vows to retain Bukomansimbi seat

Ms Veronica Nanyondo (C) addresses her supporters in Bukomansimbi Town on Tuesday. Photo by MARTINS E. SSEKWEYAMA

BUKOMANSIMBI- Democratic Party (DP) chairperson for Bukomansimbi District Joseph Ssekibaala has said no political party will take away the District Woman MP seat from them. He said the late legislator Susan Namaganda had done a lot for the constituency.

The seat fell vacant last month after the incumbent Namaganda died in a motor accident on Kampala –Masaka highway.

This month, the party endorsed her young sister, Ms Veronica Nanyondo, to replace her.

Speaking at one of Nanyondo’s campaign rallies in Bukomansimbi Town on Tuesday, Mr Ssekibaala said DP did not front her as a mere consolation to the bereaved family, but the decision was based on her ability to complete her late sister’s projects.

“We had drafted a comprehensive manifesto for our late legislator, comprising our political agenda and we want it implemented both as a community and the party. We still have to pursue these goals with someone with the same attributes,” he noted.

The late Namaganda was credited for lobbying for better prices for rural farmers, which earned her the codename of Bbeyi ya biriime (value for agricultural products).

Other activities the deceased was passionate about was the revival of coffee and banana plantations in the district, which are regarded as staple crops parents in the area relied on for decades to raise families and educate their children.

In her speech, Nanyondo said: “I commit myself towards fulfilling the agenda of my late sister from whom I am taking up this new responsibility.” She emphasised improvement of agriculture, maternal health and girl-child education as her priorities.

She is contesting against Halima Nakawungu (NRM), Salaama Nakandi (FDC) Janat Kayondo and Immaculate Nabawunuka – both independents.