KATAKWI, UGANDA — Former Kyambogo University Guild President Akiso Benjamin, who was expelled earlier this year following student unrest, has officially announced his intention to run for Member of Parliament for Toroma County, Katakwi District in the upcoming general elections.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Akiso wrote:
“I may not have money, or a car, or enough posters. But I’ll tirelessly seek out my votes and support for the president, month after month, day and night, through rain and sunshine. Toroma, Katakwi will be the Luwero of 1981-1986. Your support is highly welcomed.”
The former student leader, known for his activism and vocal support for opposition causes during his time at Kyambogo University, has positioned himself as a grassroots candidate, rallying the youth and ordinary citizens under what he calls a “people-powered movement.”
Despite limited resources, Akiso’s political ambition draws inspiration from Uganda’s historical liberation struggles, referencing Luwero — the epicenter of the 1981–1986 National Resistance Army (NRA) bush war — as a metaphor for the political revolution he hopes to ignite in Toroma.
Akiso’s expulsion from Kyambogo University earlier this year made headlines, with many students and political observers accusing the administration of politically motivated actions. Since then, Akiso has remained active in youth political spaces, steadily building a following on social media.
