Published on 02/10/2025
The Chairperson of the Greater Mukono Masters of Ceremonies and Panellists Association, Mulongo Wasswa Susan Bakalu, has vowed to strengthen collaboration between the government and communities in the region, pledging that the association will champion mobilisation of support for President Museveni in the upcoming general elections.
“We have drawn up a clear framework with our secretary and mobilizers to ensure MCs and panellists work in an orderly system that promotes unity, peace and economic transformation as championed by our Supreme leader and the NRM party flag bear ” Bakalu said.
“Our role is not only to uplift the welfare of our members but also to strengthen the bond between our communities and government. We want to be in a system that works for the people, support government programs and sensitize the people”. he added.
Bakalu further appealed to households, particularly the youth—to rally behind President Yoweri Museveni as the nation heads toward the 2026 elections. He also applauded, the Special Presidential Assistant – Press & Mobilization, Hajji Faruk Kirunda for delivering the UGX 100 million in support to the association, noting that the financial boost from the President would empower members to improve their household incomes.
“This support is not just money; it is capital that will help our members start projects, uplift their families, and contribute to the prosperity of the people in Greater Mukono community including Kayunga, Buikwe, Buvuma and Mukono. ” Bakalu emphasized.
”We commend President Museveni because many young people never witnessed the challenges Uganda faced before 1986. That is why we must safeguard the peace, stability, and progress we enjoy today, all sacrifices of President Museveni and other unsung heroes” he added.
Mr. Makumbi Akleo one of the members of the association member also applauded government for recognizing panellists and MCs as vital actors in grassroots mobilization.
“It has never happened before for us to be considered in this way, but this is the first time panellists are being directly recognized. It is a turning point for us.” Makumbi said.
He emphasized that the initiative closes a critical gap in government communication.
“For years, one of NRM’s challenges was having too few voices to explain its achievements at the community level. MCs and panellists meet people daily at functions, so we are best placed to bridge that gap.”
Veteran journalist Mr. Badru Kiwalyanga also welcomed the initiative, commending President Museveni and hailing Hajji Faruk Kirunda for his consistent support to panellists in Greater Mukono.
“This empowerment has given us the tools to sensitize Ugandans, especially the Bazzukulu, about government achievements, opposition leaders have sometimes spread falsehoods, but with this support, we can take the truth directly to the people.”
He further stressed the importance of sensitization to maximize the impact of government programs.
“In the past, funds would be released but end up unused, while beneficiaries remained in need. The truth is, development projects are visible in our communities, but people must be sensitized to fully benefit from them.”
The association with over 50 members also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to rallying communities in support of President Yoweri Museveni’s 2026–2031 Manifesto, emphasizing that their network of MCs and panellists will serve as a grassroots engine for mobilization across the districts of Mukono, Buikwe, Kayunga and Buvuma.
“Our voices reach people daily in homes, churches, mosques, and public gatherings. We are determined to use this influence to mobilize support for President Museveni because we believe in protecting the gains of peace, stability, and development under his leadership,” the leadership noted.
