KAMPALA – As the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) prepares to endorse candidates for the upcoming East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) by-election scheduled for April 15, 2026, one contender is making a compelling case grounded in competence, linguistic versatility, and an enduring commitment to regional integration.
Dr. Kisembo Ronex Tendo, a Nakaseke-Luwero muzzukulu and Group CEO of Afrika Mashariki Fest, has formally appealed to CEC members to endorse his candidacy, arguing that Uganda’s delegation to EALA must reflect ideological clarity, experience, and steadfast dedication to the East African Community (EAC) integration process.
In his appeal to the distinguished CEC members, Dr. Kisembo emphasized that his commitment to matters Jumuiya—the Swahili term for the Community—has been deliberate and enduring rather than episodic. He noted that his linguistic proficiency positions him as a uniquely effective regional diplomat.
“I am fluent in English, Kiswahili, Luganda, Kinyarwanda, and Kirundi, with a working knowledge of French and Lingala,” Dr. Kisembo stated. “In a Community defined by diversity, I am persuaded to believe that this is an asset and a strategic advantage.”
His candidacy comes at a pivotal moment, as NRM National Chairman and President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has just assumed the Chairmanship of the East African Community for the 2026-2027 term. Dr. Kisembo congratulated Mzee upon assuming this leadership role “at such a critical moment when our Community needed strategic guidance and direction,” expressing confidence in his clear-headed leadership.
Dr. Kisembo, a proponent and enthusiast of EAC integration, submitted that Uganda’s representation in Arusha must reflect the highest standards of competence to effectively support President Museveni in advancing Uganda’s strategic interests within the region.
“I strongly believe that I am well positioned to engage constructively across linguistic and cultural boundaries in our region,” he said. “It is therefore my profound and sincere appeal to you, my elders, to consider endorsing me for one of the two slots to be able to support Mzee in advancing Uganda’s strategic interests in the region and deepen the integration agenda.”
Observers note that Dr. Kisembo’s background as Group CEO of Afrika Mashariki Fest—a platform celebrating East African culture, trade, and unity—demonstrates his practical engagement with the integration agenda beyond political rhetoric. His deep-rooted ties to the Central Region, particularly Nakaseke and Luwero, further position him as a muzzukulu committed to serving both his local constituency and the nation at large.
As the April 15 by-election approaches, Dr. Kisembo’s appeal to CEC members highlights his readiness to deploy his linguistic skills, ideological clarity, and regional expertise to deepen the EAC integration agenda under President Museveni’s strategic guidance.
“I thank you,” Dr. Kisembo concluded, invoking Isaiah 60:22 as a testament to his faith in divine timing and purpose.
