Makerere University Congratulates Former Staff, Alumni on Election to Public Office

Kampala — Makerere University has congratulated its former staff and students who were elected to various public offices during the 2026 national elections, describing their success as a testament to the institution’s long-standing contribution to leadership, democracy and national development.

In a press statement dated January 27, 2026, issued by the Office of the Vice Chancellor through the Public Relations Office, the university said the victories were a source of pride and reflected Makerere’s commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence but also leadership and free expression.

“Makerere University warmly congratulates its former staff and students who emerged victorious in the 2026 national elections,” the statement reads. “Their success is a source of immense pride to the University and a strong affirmation of Makerere’s efforts to not only nurture academic excellence but also free expression and leadership.”

The university said the outcomes underscore Makerere’s enduring impact on public service and governance in Uganda.

“It is evidence of Makerere’s enduring impact and contribution to leadership, public service, and national development,” the statement added.

Makerere specifically recognised several members of its community who secured elective positions, including Chancellor Dr Crispus Walter Kiyonga, who was elected Member of Parliament for Bukonzo West, and Mr Bruce Balaaba Kabasa, Chair of the University Council’s Finance, Planning, Administration and Investment Committee, who won the Rubanda County West parliamentary seat.

Also congratulated were Mr Arionzi Lawrence, a former Guild President, elected Lord Mayor of Arua City; Mr Maseruka Robert, another former Guild President, elected MP for Mukono South; and Mr Gyaviira Lubowa Ssebina, former Deputy Bursar, elected MP for Nyendo–Mukungwe.

Others recognised include Prof Lubega George Willy, a former lecturer at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), elected MP for Bugangaizi South; Hon Anna Ebaju Adeke, a former Guild President, re-elected Woman MP for Soroti District; and Hon Denis Onekalit, also a former Guild President, elected MP for Kitgum Municipality.

Makerere further congratulated Hon Gerald Karuhanga on his re-election as MP for Ntungamo Municipality, Hon Lilian Aber on her re-election as Woman Representative for Kitgum District, and Hon Phiona Nyamutoro, a former Vice Guild President, elected Woman MP for Nebbi District.

The university reaffirmed its values of democratic engagement and responsible citizenship. “Makerere values dialogue, democracy, and responsible citizenship, and continues to make deliberate and progressive efforts to enhance participation in leadership and governance,” the statement said.

The institution expressed confidence that the elected leaders would serve the country with distinction. “We are confident they will serve with dedication, wisdom, and integrity,” the statement concluded, reiterating Makerere University’s motto: ‘We Build for the Future.’