By Lumpe Media
KAMPALA — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) Chief Coordinator for the Greater Mpigi Region, Hon. Juma Witonze Kisekka, as the new State Minister for Internal Affairs, marking a significant milestone in the political career of a leader whose rise has been built on grassroots mobilization, patriotism and unwavering support for the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Witonze’s appointment comes weeks after the State Minister-designate for Internal Affairs, Dr. Lawrence Muganga, failed to secure approval from Parliament’s Appointments Committee over concerns surrounding his dual citizenship.
His elevation to Cabinet has been welcomed by supporters who describe it as recognition of years of dedicated service to the ruling NRM and his role in strengthening the Patriotic League of Uganda, an organization that has championed patriotism, wealth creation and youth empowerment across the country.
A Journey Rooted in Grassroots Politics
Unlike many politicians who entered public life through elective office, Hon. Witonze’s political journey began at the grassroots, where he established himself as a mobiliser committed to advancing the ideals of the National Resistance Movement.
Over the years, he built a reputation as an energetic organizer, working closely with communities, local leaders and youth groups to promote government programmes and President Museveni’s vision for socio-economic transformation.
His consistent engagement with ordinary Ugandans earned him respect within political circles and eventually saw him entrusted with the responsibility of coordinating the activities of the Patriotic League of Uganda in the Greater Mpigi region.
As PLU Chief Coordinator, Witonze spearheaded mobilization campaigns aimed at strengthening patriotism, national unity and citizen participation in government development initiatives. He became a familiar face at community meetings, youth empowerment forums and political mobilization activities across the region.
Political analysts say his appointment reflects President Museveni’s continued confidence in leaders who have demonstrated commitment to grassroots organization and ideological clarity.
Expanding His National Profile
In 2026, Witonze sought election to represent Uganda in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). Although he did not secure the position, the campaign significantly raised his national profile and showcased his ambition to contribute to regional integration and legislative affairs.
Despite the setback, he remained active within the NRM and the Patriotic League of Uganda, continuing to mobilize support for government programmes while strengthening his political networks across the country.
Those close to him describe him as resilient and disciplined, qualities they say have contributed to his steady rise within Uganda’s political establishment.
Appointment to Cabinet
Rumours had circulated in recent weeks that Witonze was the leading candidate to replace Dr. Lawrence Muganga after Parliament declined to approve the latter’s appointment.
During the vetting process, Parliament’s Appointments Committee rejected Dr. Muganga’s nomination after concerns emerged that he held Ugandan, Rwandan and Canadian citizenship.
While Uganda recognizes dual citizenship, Article 15(7) of the Constitution empowers Parliament to restrict dual citizens from holding certain public offices.
The Uganda Citizenship and Immigration Control (Amendment) Act, 2009, specifically bars holders of dual citizenship from occupying several sensitive government positions, including the office of Cabinet Minister and other ministerial portfolios.
President Museveni subsequently appointed Witonze to fill the position, citing the need to maintain continuity in the leadership of the Internal Affairs Ministry.
Expectations Ahead
As State Minister for Internal Affairs, Hon. Witonze Kisekka will help oversee matters relating to internal security, immigration, citizenship, national identification, correctional services and coordination among Uganda’s internal security agencies.
Political observers believe his extensive grassroots experience, mobilization background and close working relationship with government structures could prove valuable in implementing policies aimed at strengthening national security, public order and service delivery.
His appointment is also viewed as another indication of President Museveni’s continued emphasis on promoting leaders who have demonstrated loyalty, ideological commitment and long-standing service within the ruling movement.
For many of his supporters, Witonze’s rise from grassroots political mobiliser to Cabinet minister stands as a testament to persistence, dedication and years of service to Uganda’s political landscape.
