Makerere University Guild President James Churchill Ssentamu has defended his recent photo with President Museveni which sparked backlash online.
Churchill, who’s also the son of Chairman Nyanzi , National Unity Platform chief Mobiliser and a brother to Opposition leader Bobi Wine while addressing the Media this Friday morning at Makerere University said that the photo was taken at an official event he attended simply because he’s the Guild President and not to show any political support.
“I get why people are upset, and I don’t blame them,” he said during a media briefing at Makerere. “But that moment wasn’t about politics. I was there doing my job—representing over 45,000 students with all kinds of views.”
He further explained that as Guild President, he has to attend official university events, regardless of who the chief guest is.
“I don’t pick who gets invited. I show up because that’s part of my responsibility. People need to be more tolerant of different perspectives,” he added.
Churchill also responded to reports that his dad wasn’t happy and had asked him to resign or apologize.
“I respect my father and where he’s coming from, but I have to carry out my duties as Guild President.”
Churchill Ssentamu also reaffirmed his affiliation as he confirmed that he still a full member of National Unity Platform as he trashed allegations that he was suspended .
“I’ve never been suspended from the party. I’m still NUP,” he confirmed.
Churchill Ssentamu was elected the 91st Guild President of Makerere University last month with 3,459 votes.
He ran as an independent after NUP’s People Power backed Ismail Basalirwa, who beat him narrowly in their primaries.
