NUP's Salim Sultana Looks to Turn the 'Eye-Tention' She Gets Into Votes

Ms Salim Sultana is a package unto herself, even as she stresses that her looks is not what he is selling to the voter but a substance called "effective representation".

KISORO | The National Unity Platform (NUP) has struggled to make its presence felt in swathes of western Uganda and in the southwestern district of Kisoro, the opposition party is just as quiet.

Yet all is not lost. Ms Salim Sultana presents NUP with a chance to turn the eyes and the attention to the party's red corner but whether the "eye-tention" will translate into votes is for November 14 to tell.

Flanked by NUP principal Robert Kyagulanyi, Ms Sultana commanded the attention many opposition candidates in the NRM-mad district would only dream about.

Men campaigning for political office have been known to prop their good-looking better half top the open roof of their cars because once in a while, what attracts the eye can get the desired ink tick.

But Ms Sultana is a package unto herself, even as she stresses that her looks is not what he is selling to the voter but a substance called "effective representation".

A native of Kisoro Municipality, the 30-year-old is married with one child. She began her political journey in 2015 as a university student at Uganda Christian University, initially aligning with the NRM and participating in the primaries against the late Sarah Mateke and Rose Kabagyeni.

However, by 2021, Sultana switched allegiance to NUP, where she contested in the general elections for the Kisoro Woman MP seat.

Now, she is back to remind Kisoro that its women have her and the NUP to count on in the by-election.

Ms Sultana faces stiff competition from five other candidates, including Grace Akifeza Ngabirano (Independent), Rose Kabagyeni (NRM), Juliet Musanase (FDC), Mable Ingabire (UPC), and Aisha Cyimpaye (PPP). This election will be pivotal in determining Kisoro’s future development and representation.

Reflecting on her background in leadership, Ms Sultana said she has held leadership roles since her school days, including as a health prefect.

Her determination to serve has grown stronger with her years in politics.

“NUP is very supportive, but as a candidate, I also need to support myself,” she noted, acknowledging the balance between party backing and her own contributions.

Ms Sultana’s campaign aims to plant a strong NUP presence in Kisoro, a traditional NRM stronghold. She expressed optimism about the support from NUP leaders, with party president Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) expected to join her on the day of nomination.

“The presence of my party president on my nomination day is a sign of change. It shows our determination to bring transformation to Kisoro, despite facing intimidation. I am confident that this is the moment to demonstrate that change is coming,” she stated.

Ms Sultana's platform focuses on empowering Kisoro’s youth, encouraging them to stay in school and establishing centers to teach practical skills.

She also promises to advocate for improved healthcare facilities in the district, stressing her commitment to community development.

While her striking appearance has drawn attention, Sultana is quick to dispel any notion that her campaign is about looks.

“The energy I bring to this campaign is not about beauty. Beauty has no place in this by-election,” she said firmly.

As the November 14 by-election draws near, all eyes are on Sultana as she gears up to challenge her rivals in a district known for its deep-rooted political loyalties.

For the people of Kisoro, Sultana represents a chance to make their voices heard and to stand strong in protecting their votes.