Makerere University Guild Presidential aspirant John Baptist Rukundo has vowed to champion student welfare, ensure transparency, and hold the administration accountable if elected.
Speaking at a campaign event, Rukundo criticized past guild leaders for neglecting student grievances and aligning with university management instead of advocating for the student body.
Addressing students at a packed campaign rally, Rukundo pledged to be a strong, independent voice, promising a leadership focused on real solutions rather than political convenience. He accused previous guild leaders of abandoning their mandates, stating, “We vote guild presidents, but they go and sleep in bed with the administration. Here I am to tell you, gallant intellectuals, I’m not going to sleep in bed. I will rather represent all your issues to the top management.”
His campaign revolves around student welfare, increased transparency, and the creation of more opportunities for Makerere students. A key concern he raised is the university’s failure to provide internship placements, despite students paying hefty functional and internship fees. “I am a second-year student paying Shs 850,000 per semester, yet I have to hustle for an internship placement myself,” he lamented. He promised that if elected, his administration would partner with institutions across Uganda to ensure students secure internship placements.
Rukundo also vowed to push for the renovation of student halls of residence, which he said had been neglected for years. He further pledged to connect Makerere students to government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) to equip them with skills for post-university life.
With the highly contested guild elections set for March 12, Rukundo’s campaign has gained momentum. His endorsement by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Makerere Chapter has further strengthened his candidacy. NRM Makerere General Secretary Ahereza Natasha stated that Rukundo was chosen due to his deep understanding of student issues, especially those affecting government-sponsored students.
NRM Makerere Chapter Chairperson Edmond Ariho also weighed in, arguing that the university had suffered under opposition-led guild leadership for years and that it was time for change. “This is the time to liberate the institution. Only the NRM can bring transformation,” he asserted, noting that the last NRM Guild President was elected in 2008.
With 14 candidates vying for the position, Rukundo faces a tough contest. However, his strong stance on accountability and student welfare has positioned him as a formidable contender in the race for Makerere’s top student leadership role.
