Youth leaders and stakeholders in the Rwenzori region have expressed growing concern over the increasing commercialization of politics, which they say is hampering meaningful youth participation in leadership.
Speaking during the 2nd sitting of the 8th sub-national youth parliament in Kasese, participants noted how the monetization of elections is diverting the electorate and discouraging honest young candidates from contesting for political offices.
Ndyanabo Baluku Hanington, the Speaker of Rughendabara Town Council, said that money in politics is a harsh reality that must be acknowledged arguing that influence of wealth in political contests has made it difficult for capable youth to participate without financial power.
He called on government authorities to enforce campaign finance regulations and review nomination fees to create a more equitable political space.
Robinah Kabugho, Chairperson of Kasese Municipality Youth Council, further warned that the commercialization of politics is turning leadership positions into privileges for the wealthy, undermining inclusive governance and fueling political frustration among the youth.
She urged young people to actively influence government decisions and participate responsibly in leadership at all levels, cautioning them against being manipulated during election periods.
Provia Kabugho, the deputy Speaker Kasese Municipal Council, noted that the promotion of women’s and youth participation remains essential for achieving inclusive governance and sustainable peace.
However, she noted that the commercialisation of the local politics leaves the most able especially young women from joining political races.
Winnie Akankunda, Women District Councilor Kitswamba Sub county, Kasese said that despite the existence of legal provisions, structural barriers continue to hinder their effective involvement.
She demands government to institutes an affirmative action that can bring fairness to young people into competitive political races across all positions.
In a virtual address, Western Region Youth Member of Parliament Mwine Tumwebaze acknowledged the shared blame between government and electorates in the commercialization of politics.
“Its not government which puts the candidate on pressure to give x amount or y amount, it is us the youths, its us “ Mwine statedShalom Chantal, Programs Manager at Faraja Africa Foundation-Uganda, encouraged young people to rise above these challenges and make their voices heard in national leadership.
Samson Bihanikire, the District Principal Human Resource Officer, urged youth to take active roles in politics based on facts and good causes rather than subjective opposition.
The speakers agreed that addressing the commercialization of politics is vital to creating a level playing field and fostering genuine youth representation. They called for collective efforts to reform campaign financing laws and promote ethical political engagement, ensuring the youth can participate freely and fairly in shaping Uganda’s future. The youth also called on the government to address the “selling of jobs” by the district service commissions-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
