By Mulengera Reporters
The recently concluded NRM Parliamentary primary elections in Rubanda East County culminated in a decisive victory for Henry Musasizi, the State Minister for Finance (General Duties).
His win was no mere stroke of political fortune, but the product of deliberate, people-centered leadership built over years of service delivery, loyalty to the NRM, effective implementation of government programs, and strategic political engagement.
Minister Musasizi’s journey began in 2011 when he was first elected to Parliament. He has since steadily grown in political influence and public trust, serving on key parliamentary committees including Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Public Accounts (Central Government), the Business Committee, and the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Budget.
In June 2021, he was appointed as State Minister for Finance in charge of General Duties, and he currently chairs the NRM in Rubanda District.
On 18th July 2025, Minister Musasizi garnered 22,538 votes, defeating his closest rival Jogo Kenneth Biryabarema who secured 18,832.
Other contenders, Pierre Mbabazi and Israel Atuheire, received 11 and 39 votes respectively.Key Drivers of Victory:1.
Effective Implementation of Government Programs: A major pillar of Minister Musasizi’s appeal lies in his active role in the rollout of government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.
His involvement in mobilizing and sensitizing communities on these programs earned him immense grassroots support. Under his guidance, Rubanda East saw significant improvements in road infrastructure, electricity extension, and access to youth and women empowerment funds.
Service Delivery: Minister Musasizi’s track record in improving public services is well documented. From lobbying for a modern ambulance at Hamurwa Health Centre IV to installing a 4,160-watt solar power system at Mpungu Health Centre III, his impact is visible across the constituency. In Nyamweru Sub-county, he facilitated the construction of an administration block, provided iron sheets personally, ensured the health facility was equipped and staffed, and spearheaded road and electricity projects.
He also secured land and solar equipment for a new health facility in Bigungiro Parish and provided hoes to support women farmers across Rubanda East.
“We have opened and rehabilitated roads where none existed, connected sub-counties to the national grid, and improved communication networks. These are real changes in people’s lives,” Minister Musasizi emphasized.
Political Loyalty and NRM Structures: Minister Musasizi’s unwavering loyalty to the NRM party has anchored his political brand. His consistency positioned him as a trusted steward of the party’s agenda, earning him access to support from village to district-level NRM structures. This organizational strength was instrumental in mobilizing voters and protecting the vote.
Religious Inclusivity: Despite resistance from some Anglican Church leaders who backed his rival, Minister Musasizi managed to garner strong support from Anglican voters. Many defied clerical guidance, citing his contributions to church development across denominations. His support for both Anglican and Catholic church projects, along with his engagement with Muslim and Pentecostal leaders, cemented his image as an inclusive and unifying candidate.
Cohesive District Leadership: Rubanda District leadership, led by LC5 Chairman Stephen Ampeire Kasyaba, played a key role in aligning behind Minister Musasizi. Their collaboration in promoting government programs like PDM, Emyooga, and youth funds showcased district-wide unity. Their public recognition of Minister Musasizi’s efforts reassured voters of continued development under his leadership.
Public Trust and Personal Connection: More than any political machinery, it was trust that carried Musasizi to victory. Known for being present and responsive, Musasizi has maintained a strong rapport with constituents, often offering personal assistance in times of need. Voters chose a leader they knew, respected, and could count on.
Composure Under Pressure: Despite facing intimidation and incidents targeting his supporters, Musasizi remained composed throughout the campaign. He avoided inflammatory rhetoric and focused on a message of service and unity. “I thank the people of Rubanda East for retaining the best. I have worked hard for you, and I’m honored to continue representing you under the NRM,” he stated after his win.
Looking Ahead Minister Musasizi has pledged to focus on economic empowerment and basic services in his next term, aligning with President Museveni’s vision of lifting households into the money economy.
.“Our campaign emphasized poverty eradication. Rubanda’s household income level stands at 38%, above the national average. But we can do more,” he noted. Top priorities include lobbying for the upgrade of tourism roads, establishment of a technical school, and addressing water access challenges due to the district’s hilly terrain.
“The water extension project’s feasibility study is complete. Our next goal is securing funds for implementation,” Minister Musasizi added. Minister Musasizi’s re-election is a testament to transformative leadership rooted in action, not promises.
His ability to connect across political, religious, and social lines, combined with a legacy of results made him the natural choice for voters in Rubanda East. In a political climate increasingly defined by demand for accountability and tangible results, Minister Musasizi’s win signals a clear voter preference: leaders who deliver, lead inclusively, and remain connected beyond election cycles. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
