Ssemujju: Politics Has Turned Into a Job Hunt in Uganda

Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has criticised the growing trend of people seeking political office in Uganda as a means of securing employment rather than serving the public.

Speaking during an interview on NBS Television on Monday, Ssemujju said many aspiring leaders view politics as a career opportunity instead of a platform to improve governance and address citizens’ needs.

The legislator noted that this shift in motivation has contributed to a decline in the quality of leadership, as personal gain often takes precedence over public service.

He argued that once politics is treated as a job rather than a calling, leaders become more focused on retaining their positions than fulfilling their campaign promises.

“Politics in Uganda has become a form of employment. People don’t contest because they want to go and do better in Parliament but because that’s an avenue for employment,” Ssemujju said.

Ssemujju warned that unless this mindset changes, Uganda risks entrenching a political culture where elective positions are merely seen as lucrative jobs.

He urged voters to critically assess candidates’ track records and intentions before offering them the mandate to lead.

His remarks come as the country heads towards the 2026 general elections, with many aspirants already declaring their intentions