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Ronald Balimwezo, the newly elected Lord Mayor of Kampala, has sparked fresh political discussion after clearly stating that he cannot meet President Yoweri Museveni without first getting approval from National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine. His remarks have drawn attention across the country and stirred debate among both supporters and critics.
Balimwezo made the statement during a television interview shortly after his victory in the Lord Mayor race. His win was a major political moment, as he defeated long-serving Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago in a highly contested election that kept Kampala residents watching closely.
According to Balimwezo, his loyalty to the National Unity Platform is not just political but also personal and principled. He emphasized that he was sponsored by NUP and therefore must respect the party’s leadership when making major decisions, especially those involving engagement with President Museveni.
He openly said that if a situation arose where he had to meet the President, he would first sit down with Bobi Wine to discuss it. This, he explained, is about discipline and unity within the party rather than personal feelings toward anyone.
Balimwezo described Bobi Wine as his political leader and referred to him as “my president,” a phrase often used by NUP supporters to show strong belief that Kyagulanyi won the 2021 presidential election. This statement reflects the deep loyalty that exists within the party’s leadership ranks.
At the same time, the Lord Mayor-elect made it clear that he is ready to work with all stakeholders for the development of Kampala. He noted that service delivery and improving the city remain his main goals once he officially takes office.
However, he stressed that working for the people does not mean abandoning political principles. For him, party discipline and respect for leadership structures are non-negotiable, even when dealing with the country’s top leaders.
His comments have raised questions among some members of the public. One reader, Baingana Daniel, wondered why Balimwezo would even want to meet President Museveni if his main political allegiance is to Bobi Wine. Such reactions show the confusion and strong emotions surrounding Uganda’s political divisions.
Supporters of Balimwezo argue that his position shows consistency and honesty. They say he is being transparent about where he stands politically and is not trying to please everyone at once.
Others believe that as Lord Mayor, he will need to interact with the central government, including the President, to secure funding and support for Kampala projects. They worry that strict political conditions could make cooperation more difficult.
Kampala, being the capital city, requires close coordination between local leadership and the national government. Issues like roads, garbage collection, drainage, health services, and security often involve different levels of authority working together.
Balimwezo seems aware of this challenge. That is why he carefully balanced his statement by saying he is open to cooperation, but under guidance from his party leadership. He is trying to walk a line between governance and political loyalty.
His victory itself was symbolic. Defeating Erias Lukwago, who had served for many years and built a strong following, showed a shift in Kampala’s political landscape and the growing influence of NUP structures in city politics.
This development also highlights the continued political rivalry between NUP and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Any meeting between a strong NUP leader and President Museveni is likely to carry heavy political meaning.
Balimwezo has also promised to lead Kampala with unity, transparency, and cooperation. These promises suggest he wants to avoid the constant political fights that have sometimes slowed city work in the past.
Still, his latest statement proves that politics remains deeply connected to governance. For many leaders, decisions are not just about administration but also about party identity and loyalty to those who supported their rise.
Within NUP, such loyalty is often praised. Party members believe that standing together strengthens their voice and protects their political agenda.
For the wider public, the main concern will be results. Residents of Kampala want better services, cleaner streets, and improved infrastructure, regardless of political differences at the top.
As Balimwezo prepares to officially assume office, many eyes will be on how he handles relations with the central government while still respecting his party leadership. His actions in the coming months will show whether this balance can work in practice.
In the end, his statement has done one thing clearly — it has shown that his leadership will be shaped strongly by party guidance. Whether this approach brings smooth cooperation or more political tension remains to be seen, but it has already added a new chapter to Kampala’s political story.
