At just 20 years old, Madox Asiimwe is making waves in Ntungamo Municipality as he seeks nomination to contest the 2026 mayoral seat.
A Senior Five student at Ntungamo Secondary School, Madox says his candidacy is driven by a desire to tackle unemployment, improve sanitation, and motivate the municipality’s idle youth to take charge of their future.
Hailing from Kabagyenda Village and the youngest of four children to Mwine Alice and Asiimwe Richard, Madox recalls that his dream of leading Ntungamo Municipality began in Primary Four.
“Since primary, I was called ‘mayor’ by my classmates. I came to love it, and now I feel it’s coming true,” he said.
Madox’s campaign focuses on addressing the everyday challenges facing residents.
“There’s unemployment in Ntungamo Municipality, poor roads, and gaps in the health and education sectors. I want to address these issues and help young people believe in themselves,” he explained.
Those close to him say leadership comes naturally to Madox. One elder remarked, “One day he told me he wanted to run for mayor. It felt unusual at the time, but he was serious.”
At school, Deputy Head Teacher Ronald Nuwaguma praised his confidence and leadership.
“Madox served as chairperson of the school council in O-Level and is now head prefect. He has the brilliance and drive to balance studies with politics,” Nuwaguma said.
On Thursday, Madox visited the Electoral Commission offices for verification ahead of nomination. He was asked to return after submitting some outstanding documents.
Returning Officer Latiff Ngonzi commended the young aspirant’s initiative but suggested he first complete his studies.
“At 20, he’s most welcome to join elections, but personally, I would advise him to finish school first,” Ngonzi said.
Ngonzi also clarified that eligibility for a municipal mayoral race requires only that a candidate be Ugandan and over 18 years old; no academic qualifications are required, making Madox fully eligible.
Meanwhile, three candidates have already been nominated for the 2026 mayoral seat: incumbent Jaka Jex Kafureeka (NRM), Hajj Hakim Muhekyi Rwomushana (independent), and Isa Kazi Mbaya.
By the end of Thursday, Madox had not yet completed his nomination process.
Madox’s entry into the race has already captured public attention, highlighting the growing trend of youth participation in local politics and adding a fresh dimension to Ntungamo’s mayoral contest.
