JINJA – Veteran Busoga politician and renown scholar Dr Frank Nabwiso has expressed interest in contesting for Jinja city mayorship on the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party ticket.
In an interview with PML Daily, the former Busoga University vice-chancellor who represented Kagoma county in the 7th Parliament says he is aspiring for mayorship so that he can make Jinja shine again.
“It is true I have expressed interest but I am waiting for my party’s confirmation. If they give me the green light, I will go all the way,” Dr Nabwiso said.
A section of Jinja residents are, however, opposed to Dr Nabwiso’s candidature, on account of his advanced age.
“His best times are behind him. There is nothing he can offer at this stage of his life. He should respect Father Time and give the young people a chance,” said a secondary school headteacher who preferred anonymity.
However, some residents this reporter interviewed claim Dr Nabwiso’s candidature is a golden opportunity for the nascent city.
“He deserves sole candidature position owing to his seniority and incorruptibility. He is the best person for the position and will propel our city to greater heights,” said Muzamir Mudiba, a resident of Walukuba.
Dr Nabwiso said there is nobody more suited for the job than himself, adding that his advanced age gives him seniority on Jinja affairs like no other.
“I find myself most suited because I will be delegating where I can’t personally reach. That way I will be able to leave the city in the good hands of my students,” he said.
Dr Nabwiso will, however, have to fight off Mr Meddie Mbentyo and Moses Talugende who are also vying for the city mayorship on the FDC party card as well as incumbent mayor Majid Batambuze.
Jinja city is one of the five that became operational on July 1 following approval by Cabinet. The other cities include Arua, Gulu, Fort Portal and Mbarara.
