Ndebwoha Clinches Victoria University Guild Presidency in Tight Online Vote

By Gad Masereka

Excitement rippled across the campus of Victoria University on Thursday after Mugarura Isaiah Ndebwoha was declared the institution’s ninth Guild President, capping an election that many students described as one of the most closely watched in recent years.

The announcement was made by Electoral Commission chairperson Atayo Habib following the conclusion of a two day online vote that drew participation from thousands of students across faculties.

According to the official tally, Ndebwoha secured 2,980 votes, representing 50.8 percent of ballots cast, edging past his closest challenger Mujungu Marvin Kahuma who garnered 2,298 votes, while Luweru Ben Kazigo finished third with 588 votes.

Out of 10,517 registered students, 5,866 participated in the exercise, translating into a turnout of 55.78 percent. University officials said the poll was conducted through the institution’s digital voting platform, reinforcing a model first introduced in 2022 to expand accessibility and transparency in student governance.

“Today, Mugarura Isaiah Ndebwoha is declared the overall winner of the students’ guild elections for the academic year 2025 to 2026,” Atayo announced, drawing applause from supporters who had gathered in anticipation of the results. He commended students for maintaining order throughout the process and urged candidates to uphold unity after the contest.

In his brief remarks, Ndebwoha thanked the student body for entrusting him with leadership, pledging to prioritize inclusivity and academic welfare. “This victory is not mine alone. It belongs to every student who believes in a more responsive guild government,” he said, promising to engage widely across faculties to ensure no voice is left unheard.

Beyond the presidential race, students also elected Guild Representative Council members in various categories. In Health Sciences, the female GRC contest saw Nakawooya Kevin Hall Mutegeki narrowly defeat Ahurira Cephas after a tightly fought vote.

In the Business and Management faculty, Abdul Malik Muhamood won the male GRC seat with a commanding margin over Makanga Alvin Lawrence. Several other positions across Science and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, and the International Students category were filled unopposed.

Ndebwoha becomes the fifth guild president elected under the university’s online system, following leaders such as Michelle Kirabo, Carter Joryn, Emmanuel Kintu, and immediate predecessor Khaukha Emmanuel.

The outgoing guild president is expected to hand over office in the coming weeks, marking the beginning of a new chapter in student leadership at the Kampala based institution.

For many on campus, the outcome signals both continuity and renewal. As lectures resume and academic calendars tighten, attention now shifts from the ballot to delivery, with students keenly watching how the new guild administration translates campaign promises into action.