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James Churchill Ssentamu, the current guild president of Makerere University, has defended his decision to pose for a photo with President Yoweri Museveni, which stirred controversy, particularly among supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP).
The photo, taken during President Museveni's visit to the university on Tuesday, April 8, showed Ssentamu and other members of the student guild seated beside the president during the launch of the 2025 Makerere Research and Innovation Week at the main campus's Freedom Square.
The backlash was swift, with critics accusing Ssentamu of betraying his family’s political ties, especially given that his father, Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu, is the elder brother of Robert Kyagulanyi, the president of NUP.
Many opposition supporters, who have faced arrests, torture, and imprisonment under the current government, voiced their anger at the photo, labelling it as a sign of government co-optation.
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His father Fred Nyanzi has since called for him to resign from the Guild office.
He said, “I saw pictures of my son seated with the dictator. My son, Churchill, that man you're seated with is a very dangerous man... he doesn't wish you anything good.”
“He has so much blood on his hands. His hands are bloodstained. That man tried to kill me two months ago. He tried to kill your uncle, Kyagulanyi; you know that very well. He arrested your relatives. Many Ugandans have died at his hands," Nyanzi said.
"It's true you won on an independent ticket, but you're out son. The world sees a lot in you," he added.
James Ssentamu Responds
In response to the criticism, James Ssentamu addressed the issue on Wednesday, explaining that his actions should not be seen as a betrayal.
He acknowledged the challenges and the personal pain his family has endured under the regime but clarified that his role as a public figure requires him to participate in various events, including those involving the government.
“I want all people to understand that we all have a stake in this country. We all have roles and duties to play, and part of mine involves being part of public events, including government-related events,” Ssentamu said.
He pointed out that he is fully aware of the political struggles faced by his family, citing his father’s imprisonment and torture in February 2023, when Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu and other NUP members were detained by security operatives.
"Many people have been arrested; my father was arrested...I don't want people to pretend that they love my father more than I do," he said.
Support for Foot Soldiers
James Ssentamu also made it clear that his relationship with the foot soldiers of the NUP remains strong. He emphasised that he had deep connections with many of the NUP's grassroots supporters and that they understand his stance and views.
He also stressed that his personal commitment to the opposition and his family’s sacrifices should not be questioned.
“I have heard people's concerns that it is a betrayal of our foot soldiers. It isn’t. I have a strong personal relationship with many of our foot soldiers, and they know where I stand and what my views are,” Ssentamu added.