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๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Uganda /Elections & Politics

Former MP Nyangweso Returns to Constituency for Thanksgiving

From AllAfrica Uganda · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Former Samia Bugwe Central MP Dennis Nyangweso held a thanksgiving ceremony for his constituents months after losing his seat.
  • The event, attended by hundreds, emphasized gratitude and service beyond electoral victory, a rare gesture in Uganda's political landscape.
  • Religious leaders and fellow former MPs praised Nyangweso for reconnecting with his supporters and demonstrating leadership continues after office.

In a move rarely seen in Uganda's competitive political arena, former Samia Bugwe Central Member of Parliament Dennis Nyangweso returned to his constituency for a thanksgiving ceremony, months after his electoral defeat. The event, held at his home in Busikho Village, Masinya Sub-county, saw hundreds of residents gather not in disappointment, but in gratitude, celebration, and reflection.

Politics is not about winning all the time. Even when I lose, my people stand with me. You need to be with your people because they have walked with you throughout your political journey.

โ€” Dennis NyangwesoAddressing his constituents at the thanksgiving ceremony.

Religious leaders and attendees emphasized that while political positions are temporary, the commitment to serving humanity is a lifelong calling. Father Oliver Busibu commended Nyangweso for choosing to reconnect with his supporters despite the loss, viewing it as a testament to servant leadership. The former legislator expressed his gratitude for the support he received during his tenure and pledged to remain committed to serving the community, even without holding public office.

Nyangweso stated, "Politics is not about winning all the time. Even when I lose, my people stand with me. You need to be with your people because they have walked with you throughout your political journey." He stressed the importance of reconnecting with the electorate, acknowledging their unwavering support from the beginning.

It takes a real leader to do this. We knew he would do it because he has always been a leader who loves his people.

โ€” John EgesaA voter describing Nyangweso's actions.

The gathering was described as historic by many residents, including voter John Egesa, who noted it was the first time they had witnessed a former leader return to thank voters after losing an election. The event also attracted several outgoing Members of Parliament, including Godfrey Odero and Yusuf Mutembule, who used the occasion to reflect on leadership beyond electoral success. Odero remarked, "Losing an election is not the end. It is work in progress. Leadership and service should continue even after leaving office."

Losing an election is not the end. It is work in progress. Leadership and service should continue even after leaving office.

โ€” Godfrey OderoA former MP commenting on Nyangweso's gesture.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by AllAfrica Uganda. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.