Former Vice President Ssekandi Reunites With Long-Time Supporter Nalongo Gayita

Sharing the visit on his official X account, Ssekandi described Nalongo Gayita as a loyal friend whose support has remained unwavering over the years.

Former Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi on Friday paid a courtesy visit to one of his long-time supporters, Nalongo Gayita e Bukinda, in a gesture that has attracted praise from supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Nalongo Gayita, a member of the Uganda Radio Callers Association, is well known for regularly calling into various radio talk shows to express her support for the NRM, government programmes and political leaders she believes in. For many years, she has been one of Ssekandi’s outspoken supporters.

Ssekandi counting cash for his long-time friend Nalongo Gayita.

Sharing the visit on his official X account, Ssekandi described Nalongo Gayita as a loyal friend whose support has remained unwavering over the years.

“Today I have visited my friend, Nalongo Gayita e Bukunda. This lady strongly supported me. Kyanamukaaka is our home. Until now, Nalongo Gayita is my friend, I pray that God protects her,” Ssekandi wrote.

Photos shared alongside the message showed the former Vice President warmly interacting with Nalongo Gayita. In some of the images, Ssekandi appeared to be handing over cash to her, a gesture widely interpreted as appreciation for her years of loyalty and steadfast political support.

The reunion has been viewed by many as a rare example of a retired politician maintaining close ties with supporters who stood by him throughout his political career. Observers often note that many politicians lose contact with their grassroots supporters after leaving active politics.

Nalongo Gayita was visibly delighted by the visit. To demonstrate that her commitment to the NRM remains intact despite Ssekandi’s retirement from frontline politics, she proudly brought out her treasured yellow NRM T-shirt, which she has kept over the years as a symbol of her unwavering loyalty to the party.

The visit underscored the enduring friendship between the former Vice President and one of his most dedicated supporters, highlighting the value of recognising long-standing political loyalty and personal relationships beyond public office.