Opposition Forum for Democratic Change has chosen musician Mukiibi Sadat, popularly known as Kalifa Aganaga, as its official candidate for the Kawempe North by-election.
The Ndabirawa singer was on Wednesday unveiled as the opposition party’s flag bearer at its headquarters in Najjanankumbi.
“Sometimes we judge people at face value. I believe he is an inspiration to young people,” FDC vice president Robert Centenary said after the unveiling.
Kalifahad previously shown interest in contesting for the Rubaga South MP seat in the 2021 general elections but later withdrew under unclear circumstances.
His return to the political scene under the FDC ticket has sparked debate, especially given his past affiliation with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
During the 2021 elections, Aganaga openly supported NRM and was among the artists who campaigned for President Museveni.
As a reward, he was granted a scholarship, which he personally requested from the president. However, for unknown reasons, he did not proceed with the opportunity to study abroad.
Aganaga, who was once a law student at an international university in Uganda, did not complete his degree.
His political ambitions, however, remain strong as he prepares to face stiff competition in Kawempe North.
He joins a list of candidates seeking to represent Kawempe North in Parliament following the death of their MP, Muhammad Ssegirinya, last month.
Whether his popularity in the music industry will translate into political success remains to be seen.
