Former presidential candidate and retired security chief, Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde, has officially picked nomination forms to contest for the Rukungiri Municipality Member of Parliament seat.
The announcement, made earlier today at the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission, marks a strategic return to frontline politics for the seasoned military officer and politician, who previously challenged President Museveni in the 2021 general elections.
“Changing times call for different approaches,” Gen. Tumukunde told journalists. “We must meet the people where they are. Parliament is the engine room of legislation and accountability, and that’s where I want to serve next.”
Gen. Tumukunde, a man known for his meticulous strategy and firm convictions, said his decision reflects the realignment of his political mission, one he believes is better executed from within Parliament.
“I have walked the highest corridors of power. I have led intelligence agencies, served as minister, and stood on a presidential ballot. But now, I want to get closer to the grassroots and be part of the real struggle, representing voices that have long been ignored,” he added.
Rukungiri is no stranger to political heat. Once a bedrock of opposition dominance, particularly the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) under Dr. Kizza Besigye, it has since become a battleground for change vs. continuity.
Gen. Tumukunde, who hails from Rukungiri District, emphasized that he is not an outsider jumping into local politics, but a homegrown son returning to rebuild.
“Rukungiri gave me the fire I needed to serve this country. It’s only fair that I return with that same fire to serve Rukungiri,” he said.
While Tumukunde’s 2021 presidential campaign drew applause for its civility and focus on national unity, this parliamentary race promises to be fierce, personal, and deeply strategic.
His entry may shake up alliances within both the ruling NRM and opposition blocs, where powerful figures have traditionally dominated the region’s political space. Observers believe this could realign loyalties and split votes in unexpected ways.
Political commentator Robert Sempala notes, “Gen. Tumukunde is not just another candidate. He brings with him statecraft, military discipline, and elite political experience. Whoever underestimates him does so at their own risk.”
While some critics accused Tumukunde of settling for less after a failed presidential bid, his supporters argue that his new move reflects realistic leadership and a desire to effect tangible change.
However, Gen. Tumukunde is not done with Uganda’s political story. He’s just rewritten the next chapter.
“I still have the fire, I still believe in change, and I still trust that the people of Uganda, starting with Rukungiri, are ready for bold, authentic leadership.”
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