Makerere University has a new student leader. In a high-stakes electronic ballot held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Gracious Kadondi of the National Unity Platform (NUP) emerged victorious, securing a definitive mandate to lead Uganda’s oldest ivory tower.
Kadondi becomes the 92nd Guild President and only the fifth leader in the university’s history to be elected through the digital voting system. She clinched the win with 6,801 votes, comfortably outpacing her closest challenger, independent candidate Hannah Karema, who garnered 5,787 votes. Peter Kyanja Claveri trailed in third place with 1,493 votes in a crowded field of 13 aspirants.
The announcement, delivered virtually by the University Electoral Commission, triggered instantaneous celebrations. Supporters gathered at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility erupted into victory songs and chants, waving NUP banners as news of the landslide spread across hall blocks and lecture rooms.
Despite the jubilant atmosphere, the heavy presence of the UPDF and Uganda Police remained visible at strategic campus points to ensure the celebrations remained peaceful. While student engagement was high, the day was not without hurdles; some voters reported minor technical difficulties navigating the mobile-based voting portal, though these did not seem to dampen the overall turnout.
In her victory address, Kadondi did not shy away from the controversies surrounding the current electoral format. While she benefited from the digital tally, she has pledged to overhaul the system to increase transparency.
“Our victory must not just be free; it must be visibly seen as free and fair,” Kadondi stated.
She has vowed to advocate for:
• Tangible Evidence: Introducing physical declaration forms and validation methods to build trust in the electronic results.
• Return to Tradition: Pushing for a hybrid or full return to physical campaigns and voting where feasible.
• Student Welfare: Prioritizing a direct dialogue between the student body and the university administration.
Kadondi’s win reinforces the National Unity Platform’s tightening grip on student politics in Uganda. National NUP leaders have already sent a wave of congratulations, framing the win as a testament to the party’s resonance with the youth.
As Kadondi prepares for her inauguration, the spotlight shifts to how she will balance her ambitious reform agenda with the administrative realities of Makerere University. For now, the “Hill” belongs to Kadondi and a student body eager for the “fresh chapter” she promised.
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