National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearer Sam Begira has been declared the winner of the Central Region Youth Member of Parliament seat following elections held in Masaka City.
Begira secured a landslide victory with 1,001 votes, defeating seven other candidates by a wide margin.
His closest rivals trailed far behind, including National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Tulabako Edward, who garnered 12 votes.
Isaac Nazimuura received 46 votes, Churchill James Ssentamu 34 votes, Gloria Nawanyanga 4 votes, Democratic Party (DP) candidate Baale 2 votes, while Tony Jaggwe received 1 vote.
Speaking shortly after being declared winner, Begira thanked the delegates for the confidence they placed in him and pledged to prioritise tackling youth unemployment across the Central Region.
“My biggest mission is to ensure that youth unemployment is reduced. I will work tirelessly to see that young people get meaningful work and improve their standards of living,” Begira said.
He noted that many young people continue to struggle below the poverty line and promised to advocate for programmes focused on job creation, skills development and economic empowerment.
“Many of our young people are still living below the poverty line. I am going to make sure that youths get what to do so they can improve their way of life,” he added.
Begira also called on his former competitors, particularly independent candidates, to put aside political differences and work together for the common good of young people.
“I call upon those I have been competing with, especially independent candidates, to join hands with me and work towards improving the welfare of the youths in our country,” he said.
“Together, under the NRM, we can ably address the challenges facing young people.”
However, the election was not without controversy. Some candidates expressed dissatisfaction with the electoral process, alleging irregularities. Tulabako Edward, who polled 12 votes, protested the outcome, claiming the election was influenced by money.
“This election has not been fair,” Tulabako said briefly as he boarded his car. “There has been too much money circulating among delegates.”
Despite the complaints, election officials maintained that the process was conducted in accordance with established guidelines.
Begira’s victory positions him as a key voice on youth issues in the Central Region, with attention now turning to how he delivers on his pledges to address unemployment and improve the livelihoods of young people.