Who will win Rubaga South? Nassolo, Reign, or Katongole?

• The battle for Rubaga South’s parliamentary seat is intensifying ahead of the 2026 elections.
• Incumbent MP Mukasa Aloysius is struggling to retain support after a quiet term, opening the door for strong challengers like former opponent Eugenia Nassolo, popular comedian Reign, and NUP loyalist Katongole Julius. 

In our series analyzing various political candidates vying for different positions, particularly in Parliament, today we concentrate on the Rubaga South seat. Most positions in the central region are filled by candidates from the Central/Buganda region, making competition predominantly among NUP contenders.

Rubaga South is situated in Rubaga division and is recognized as one of the most significant areas in the city, the nation, and the Buganda Kingdom. This prominence is due to its location, which includes the headquarters of the Anglican Church—Namirembe Cathedral, the main Catholic church—Rubaga Cathedral, and the Buganda palace—Bulange.

Currently, Hon Mukasa Aloysius represents Rubaga South after winning the last election on the NUP ticket. Mukasa garnered over 40,000 votes, defeating his closest rival by a margin of at least 30,000 votes.

Despite this substantial victory, Mukasa has not met expectations, and on several occasions, police have intervened to quell discontent from his constituency.

Having entered Parliament as a newcomer, he has accomplished little and may struggle to be re-elected. Mukasa had previously clashed with the NUP leadership after claiming he spent over a billion shillings during the election campaign.

As a wealthy young individual, he nearly campaigned door-to-door distributing money, contributing to his significant win.

During a recent PDM visit, President Museveni inquired about the residents’ knowledge of their MP, and many responded that they did not know him. This prompted laughter from the President, who noted that it was no surprise their road was in poor condition, as no one seemed to voice concerns about it. Such issues may severely impede Mukasa’s chances for a return to Parliament.

Eugenia Nassolo

She was the opponent who contended with Mukasa in the last election on a DP ticket, managing to secure over 10,000 votes despite the strong NUP influence.

In contrast to Mukasa, Nassolo has extensive leadership experience and is a well-respected figure in her constituency. She advocates for Buganda Kingdom and holds a position in the Lukiiko. When the Kabaka was hospitalized in Namibia last year, she was among the envoys who visited him.

Nassolo has also backed women’s SACCOS in the constituency, positioning her favorably for the seat. In fact, many believe she should have been the representative in Parliament. Her pro-Buganda stance and Catholic background will likely be crucial factors in this election.

Obeid Lubega, also known as Reign

Arguably the most well-known candidate in this election is this young man, mainly due to his comedy career. As part of the comedy duo Maulana and Reign, he has made a name for himself as one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment sector, particularly in comedy.

He is also a close associate of NUP president Bobi Wine, having been introduced by Mityana Municipality MP Hon Francis Zaake Mutebi. Nevertheless, Reign’s vulnerabilities lie particularly in the strengths of the previous candidate, Eugenia Nassolo—her connection to Buganda and her faith.

Just as it’s challenging for a non-Muslim to win in Kawempe, the same applies for a non-Christian in Rubaga. This city is historically significant for Christians, not just in Buganda but throughout Uganda. Therefore, it would be challenging for Bobi Wine to endorse him, considering the consequences.

Furthermore, Reign has faced multiple accusations of showing disrespect towards the officials of the Buganda Kingdom, particularly towards the Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga. In one of their skits, they seemed to ridicule Mayiga without any signs of regret following criticism. All of this could potentially benefit his rivals.

Katongole Julius

He could emerge as the most unexpected candidate in this election, especially considering his background that is not widely recognized beyond Rubaga South, despite being quite popular in the constituency. He is also a close associate of Bobi Wine whom he referred to as a Muhammad Ssegirinya equivalent during the funeral of the late Kawempe North MP.

Katongole embodies the essence of a dedicated supporter, as he has been actively involved with NUP at various events and activities.

Many residents in the constituency admit that they are unaware of his home yet are familiar with him personally, often spotting him in numerous local hangouts. Being compared to Ssegirinya was a significant compliment to him, particularly since the late MP was regarded as the most effective member of Parliament before his passing. Thus, Katongole could have the narrative of an underdog in this election.