I may be less qualified, but more committed to Uganda, says Kyagulanyi

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National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu says he does not present himself for the presidency as the most educated or experienced candidate but as one driven by dedication to national renewal.

“I am not here because I am the most educated. I am not here because I am the most experienced or the most knowledgeable,” Kyagulanyi said. “I am here because I am the most committed to the cause of a new Uganda.”

He made the remarks at a campaign rally at Kaberamaido Township Primary School grounds on Friday.

(Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

Kyagulanyi at his campaign rally on Friday. (Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

Kyagulanyi argued that decades of highly educated leadership have failed to translate into improved living standards.

The opposition leader, who is running for the second time after an unsuccessful bid in 2021 in which he lost to President Museveni, who obtained 58 percent against his 35 percent.

He said the education system is underfunded and that many hospitals are without medicines, which he said is a sign of misrule and prolonged leadership of the NRM.

“Most of the people here have never seen a change of president in their lifetime.

Uganda is rich, but our people are poor,” he said", he said. “That alone tells you something is wrong.”

Kyagulanyi said if voted into power, Uganda’s youthful population, which he said is one of the youngest in the world, will be a development advantage. 

He said that currently, the youth have been undermined by leaders who prioritise personal gain over national interest.

“We have leaders who do not love this country,” Kyagulanyi said. “They see Uganda as private property and citizens as subjects.”

The NUP candidate accused the government of losing at least sh10 trillion annually to corruption, funds he said could transform infrastructure, education and healthcare if properly managed.

He also condemned what he described as the use of security forces to intimidate voters and opposition figures, saying such tactics expose fear rather than strength.

“Leadership is not about guns and uniforms,” Kyagulanyi said. “It is about service to the people.”

He urged supporters to focus on peaceful mobilisation and persuasion ahead of the January 15, 2026, general elections, calling on each supporter to engage others at the community level.

“This mission is not about me as a person,” Kyagulanyi said. “It is about all of us and the future of our country.”

On Saturday, the NUP leader heads to Bukedea and Ngora.