DF Urges Ugandans To Focus On Competence Over Populism In Elections

On November 13, 2025, the opposition Democratic Front (DF) hosted a flag-off ceremony at the party headquarters in Namirembe, Kampala.

This event focused on introducing candidates for various leadership roles in Lubaga Division ahead of the imminent national general elections which are scheduled to begin on January 15, 2025.

During the gathering, which was led by Kimaanya-Kabonera MP Dr. Abed Bwanika, who is also the DF treasurer, alongside Haji Abdunoor Kyamundu, the party’s deputy president for Buganda, party officials stressed the importance for voters to prioritize competence rather than charisma when casting their ballots.

At the event, the DF revealed a lineup of over a hundred candidates who will represent the party within Lubaga Division.

Key figures in this group is Kasibante Moses, a former MP for Lubaga North, who is contesting for the mayoralty of Lubaga Division.

Additionally, Samuel Lubega Mukaaku, the DF National Chairman, is competing for the Lubaga South parliamentary seat while Robert Mukiibi is running for Lubaga North, and Adelaide Nakitende aims for the Kampala District Woman MP seat, also participating in the event, recognizing that Lubaga is situated within the Kampala district.

Moreover, several candidates for local council positions who received DF flags were also flagged off, signifying the party’s dedication to filling leadership roles across all levels.

Party leaders conveyed the critical necessity for Ugandans to make well-informed voting choices.

Representing party President Mathias Mpuuga, Dr. Abed Bwanika urged voters to prioritize the qualifications and leadership experience of candidates, rather than becoming enticed by populist antics or shallow enthusiasm.

Bwanika emphasized that the DF candidates had gone through a rigorous selection process designed to ensure they possess the essential qualities for effective governance, thereby deserving of public trust in leadership positions.

As the party called for prudent voting, it highlighted the negative consequences that rash and emotion-fueled decisions have historically inflicted on Uganda.

Bwanika noted that many challenges facing Uganda stem from electing leaders without careful evaluation of their capabilities to provide effective governance.

In support of this call for prioritizing competence, Haji Kyamundu stressed the importance of evaluating candidates based on their ideas and commitment to public service.

He affirmed that the DF’s candidates are among the finest, geared towards promoting effective leadership and delivering vital services to the community.

As the spokesperson for the DF, Lubaga Division mayor hopeful Kasibante pledged to ensure quality leadership upon his election, echoing the party leadership’s message that competence must take precedence over mere excitement in politics.

The Democratic Front is making a compelling argument for thoughtful voting as Uganda gears up for its 2026 elections.