MUGABE R
An 18-year-old youth from Rukungiri District, Patrick Byamukama, has publicly declared his ambition to contest for the presidency in the 2046 general elections, citing a desire to transform Uganda’s governance and accelerate national development.
Patrick is the son of Edward and Emily Byamukama, residents of Rukiri Cell, Kyamakanda Parish in Buyanja Sub County, Rukungiri District. He is a Senior Four leaver from St Joseph Secondary School, Mbarara.
Speaking about his future plans, Patrick revealed that he intends to pursue a career in Law, a field he believes will equip him with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective governance, rule of law, and public stability.
He attributed his interest in leadership partly to what he described as a family legacy, noting that his father has served in various leadership roles within the Kigezi region. Patrick said this background has shaped his understanding of leadership and public service from an early age.
Patrick further explained that his political inspiration grew during election periods, where he observed the excitement, recognition, and influence accorded to Members of Parliament during campaign activities. He said this motivated him to aim higher within the country’s leadership hierarchy, with a long-term focus on the presidency as a platform to champion nationwide development.
As part of his early political engagement, Patrick has initiated a community-based organization known as Ruling for People’s Development (RPD). The organization is currently involved in local development initiatives, with plans to formally register it in the future and gradually transform it into a political party.
Outlining his vision for Uganda, Patrick said his priority would be to fight corruption, which he described as a major obstacle to national progress. He claimed that corruption has significantly hindered development, estimating the country’s development status at only 40 percent of its potential.
He also raised concerns over what he termed the congestion of Members of Parliament, arguing that the high number of legislators places a heavy burden on public resources. Patrick said reducing the size of Parliament would help cut unnecessary expenditure and redirect funds to essential development programs.
Patrick concluded by calling upon fellow youth to actively participate in politics, urging them to seek leadership positions as a way of ensuring fair representation and access to national resources, which he said often marginalize young people.
He maintained that meaningful youth participation in leadership is key to shaping Uganda’s future and ensuring inclusive national development.
