The winds of change are blowing in Ndorwa East, Elvis Twenda believes, and is ready to catch them. A lawyer, a son of the political trenches, and a determined advocate for his community, Twenda is making a bold bid for the parliamentary seat in 2026.
With a family legacy steeped in politics, his journey to the forefront of local leadership was inevitable—but not without its share of struggles.
From navigating Uganda’s politicized landscape to charting a course for development in his constituency, Twenda isn’t just another candidate—he’s a force to watch.
Born in 1982 in Nyamishakyi village, Kabale District, Twenda’s political roots run deep.
Raised by his mother, Norah Twenda, a former councillor and current chairperson of the women’s council in Kabale District, and his father, a former councillor during the Obote regime, Twenda’s exposure to political life began early.
“I grew up in a political family all my life,” Twenda recalls. His uncle, Hon. Shame Bagaine, also played a significant role in shaping his political ambition, alongside his mother’s active involvement in community leadership.
Before venturing into politics, Twenda carved out a successful career in law. After attending Kizinga Primary School, Kigezi College Butobere, and Namirembe Hillside High School for his A-levels, he went on to pursue a Bachelor's in Law at Makerere University, later enrolling at the Law Development Centre (LDC).
Twenda worked as a legal and administrative officer at Daily Monitor for four years, then transitioned to private practice. As a partner at Namara-Twenda Advocates, he honed his leadership skills before founding Mutahinduka-Twenda Advocates, where he currently serves as the managing partner.
Twenda’s political journey began in his youth, helping his mother with her campaigns.
“I always knew politics was part of me,” he says.
However, his decision to run for office in 2026 came with a recognition of the significant challenges ahead. Ugandan politics, he notes, has become increasingly commercialized.
“If you don’t have money to spend, you might not win,” Twenda says.
The rising cost of politics, combined with the lengthy travels to his constituency, has posed hurdles, but he’s determined to push forward.
“In politics, you must always respect the voters,” Twenda explains. “But in the legal profession, if I don’t want to take your case, I simply don’t.” He contrasts the highly regulated legal field with the often unpredictable world of politics, where status doesn’t necessarily guarantee respect.
Twenda’s vision for Ndorwa East is centred on project-oriented income, particularly through micro-projects that can lead to large-scale development.
He points to the Hass Ovadaco project as an example, aiming to improve household-level livelihoods in the constituency.
“It’s about making sure our people benefit at the grassroots,” he says.
Despite the challenges, Twenda remains committed to securing the NRM flag for the 2026 elections. “I’m working hard to secure the NRM flag,” he says, adding that he’s built a strong team to protect the vote.
Should he not win the party primaries, Twenda has ruled out running as an independent candidate, focusing instead on the long-term goals of his party.
With the 2026 elections heating up, Twenda knows the youth will play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
“The youth are the future of this country, and their impact will be felt in this race,” he says, calling on the government to better address the needs and aspirations of young people.
Twenda faces tough competition, including incumbent Wilfred Niwagaba, Dr. James Akampumuza Rutanga, and Dr Protazio Begumisa.
The voters of Ndorwa East will ultimately decide who will lead them to Parliament, and Elvis Twenda is ready to make his case.