Veteran Opposition MP Concedes Defeat After 15 Years in Parliament
Kira, Uganda | January 19, 2026
Long-serving opposition legislator Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has publicly spoken out for the first time since losing the Kira Municipality parliamentary seat in last week’s elections, marking the end of his 15-year tenure in Uganda’s Parliament.
Ssemujju was unseated by National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate George Musisi in the January 15 polls. The defeat concludes a political chapter that began in 2016 when Ssemujju first won the newly created constituency. Results indicated a shift in voter dynamics, with Musisi securing strong support in areas like Kirinya and Kasokoso, traditionally Ssemujju strongholds.
In a reflective concession, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) stalwart acknowledged the electorate’s decision. “When I campaigned, I thought I would win but when the results came out, I lost, and I conceded,” Ssemujju stated, describing his loss as genuine.
He did not attribute his personal defeat to state interference, though he expressed concern for other opposition candidates he believes were “cheated.” His loss is part of a wider setback for the opposition, which he says has seen its parliamentary numbers shrink from 106 to about 78 MPs.
Ssemujju grouped himself with other prominent defeated opposition figures like Mathias Mpuuga, Muwanga Kivumbi, and Medard Ssegona, suggesting Parliament would be diminished by their absence. “When you speak about quality, people get offended. But the truth is that some of the MPs who have been removed are people the Parliament will miss,” he remarked.
Known for his vigorous advocacy for a strong opposition, Ssemujju hinted at a continued role in public discourse from outside the legislature. “People of Kira Municipality gave me 15 years in Parliament. Maybe they see this is time for me to step away,” he said, while pledging to keep advocating for freedom and democratic reforms.
His defeat signals a significant change in the political landscape of Kira Municipality and adds to the notable reshuffle of opposition leadership in the 11th Parliament.
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