2026 Elections: Three Journalists Compete for Jinja Council Seat

  Key Information: Three reporters engage in a unique political battle in Jinja. Thanks for reading Nation.Africa   Show pl...

 

Key Information:

• Three reporters engage in a unique political battle in Jinja.

Thanks for reading Nation.Africa

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Residents of Jinja Northern Division are facing an unusual political race as three prominent journalists compete for one councilor position at Jinja City Council.

The competition has captured significant interest in Jinja City, as locals discuss which of the three media professionals—Mr Ivan Mutyaba (PFF), Mr Twahiri Damulira (Indep), and Mr Joel Balondemu (Indep)—is most capable of advocating for them during the upcoming five years.

Mr. Mutyaba, an experienced reporter from Busoga One FM, mentioned that many years of covering local government have equipped him for a leadership role.

"I've been working in this area for a long time, and I'm fully aware of what the locals need," he said.Monitor.

He mentioned he was motivated to participate in the race following the challenges faced by current members during council meetings.

"For 13 years, I have attended council meetings and observed councilors having difficulty expressing issues impacting their regions, even in English. I am familiar with how the council functions, and I am certain I can bring about change," he stated.

Mr. Mutyaba stated that reporters frequently witness leadership deficiencies up close but seldom have the chance to tackle them directly.

His competitor, Mr. Twahiri Damulira from Baba FM, is the current councilor for Bugembe Ward, but recent reorganization has combined Bugembe, Mafubira, and Budondo, putting him in direct rivalry with other reporters.

Two journalists are running against me for the same seat, but I am the current councilor," Mr. Damulira stated. "These areas were combined, yet I am pursuing another term since I understand what my constituents need. I have supported them financially and through advocacy. Let voters assess us fairly, and my track record will speak for itself.

Mr. Damulira stated that he does not object to anyone's aspirations but feels that experience will influence voters' decisions.

"We journalists don't have to determine who yields to whom. It's the voters who will make the decision," he stated. "My history is straightforward," he added.

Mr. Joel Balondemu, a journalist with Busoga Royal FM, mentioned that he has been getting ready for the 2026 political race for a long time.

"Following the 2021 elections, I publicly stated that I would run for the position of councilor in 2026. I was the first to express my interest. My colleagues should respect that," he said.

He mentioned that after multiple conversations, reporters could not reach a consensus on one candidate.

Residents, however, claim that what is important is the quality of service provided, rather than the professional background.

"We don't have an issue with the three journalists running for office. They all reside here. Our main worry is who will do a better job for us," said Ms. Jane Nabaweesi from Mafubira.

Ms. Amiina Mwesigwa from Bugembe mentioned that reporters should focus on fostering unity during upcoming elections to prevent voter confusion.

The competition is part of a tense political environment in Jinja Northern Division as the general elections approach next year. Sixteen candidates, including well-known journalist Mr. Hussein Muyonjo, also known as Swengere, are vying for the parliamentary position in the polls scheduled for January 15th next year.

Thirteen contenders, among them three reporters, are competing for the position of Jinja North councilor.

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