Igara West Member of Parliament Louis Gaffa Mbwatekamwa is once again at the centre of Uganda’s political storm—this time shaking the very foundations of the Mbarara City mayoral race.
With a career defined by bold moves, defiance of the status quo, and a flair for political theatrics, Mbwatekamwa’s entry into the race has sparked both admiration and alarm in equal measure.
A man of many hats, Mbwatekamwa has achieved what few Ugandan politicians even dare to imagine: winning parliamentary seats in two separate constituencies—Kasambya County in Kasanda District, and later Igara West in Bushenyi District—across different electoral cycles.
In Uganda’s highly tribal and regionally entrenched political landscape, such cross-constituency success is rare, and it has raised eyebrows across the board.
His political journey began with a bang—quite literally—when, at the age of 12, he led a student strike at St. Michael.
That early fire has never faded. Over the years, Mbwatekamwa has carved out a reputation for his vocal opposition to corruption and fearless engagements in Parliament, particularly during the explosive “Tojikwatako” (age limit) debate.
That moment was a political turning point—not just for Uganda, but for Mbwatekamwa himself.
He openly challenged Minister Raphael Magyezi, a fellow son of Bushenyi and the architect of the age limit removal, ultimately forcing Magyezi into premature political retirement.
Now, with his eyes on the Mbarara City mayoral seat, the political class is split. Some see him as a seasoned leader with the charisma and grit to drive change.
Others dismiss him as a political nomad—or worse, a chameleon—questioning his motives and loyalty to constituents.
Political analyst Elias Tumwebaze describes him as “a political bronze,” toughened by ideological battles and hardened by grassroots campaigns.
“He’s a man of conflict, but also a man of principle,” Tumwebaze adds. “You don’t have to like him, but you’ll respect him.”
Mbwatekamwa’s ability to walk the political tightrope—between opposition firebrands and ruling party loyalists—gives him a unique edge.
He’s the kind of politician who can throw punches and shake hands in the same breath. And that’s precisely what unsettles Mbarara’s current political players.
As 2026 inches closer, Mbarara City finds itself at a crossroads. Will the city embrace Mbwatekamwa’s brand of disruptive leadership, or will his political antics finally catch up to him?
One thing is certain: with Mbwatekamwa in the race, the drama has only just begun—and Mbarara voters are getting front-row seats to one of the most unpredictable mayoral contests in years.
No gimmicks. No filters. Just raw, unapologetic politics. Uganda-style.