Rukiga-Independent candidate Gilbert Tumuhamireho, who is vying for the Rukiga District LC5 Youth Councillor seat, has pledged to prioritize youth empowerment initiatives once elected.
Speaking shortly after his nomination at the Rukiga District Electoral Commission offices in Muhanga Town Council yesterday, Tumuhamireho said many government poverty eradication programs, such as the Youth Livelihood Program, Emyooga Fund, and the Parish Development Model (PDM), have not fully benefited young people in the district. He attributed this to limited access to proper information.
“Many youth in Rukiga are left out of government programs simply because they don’t have the right information. This has denied them opportunities for growth and self-reliance,” Tumuramye said.
The youthful aspirant also appreciated the Electoral Commission for what he described as an independent and fair nomination exercise, though he noted challenges such as prolonged procedures and repeated submissions of documents, which made the process costly and time-consuming.
Meanwhile, Simon Mutebi, the NRM flag bearer for the Rukiga District LC5 seat, called for calm and tolerance during the campaigns and elections.
He reminded the public that the law allows any eligible Ugandan to contest for leadership positions regardless of gender, age, or marital status. “What matters most is the will of the people. Leaders must remember that once given the mandate, their primary duty is to serve the community,” Mutebi emphasized.
As campaigns intensify, Tumuhamireho has positioned himself as a champion for youth inclusion and empowerment, pledging to bridge the information gap and ensure fair access to government programs.