Renowned Ugandan artist Phina Mugerwa, popularly known as Phina Masanyalaze, has officially announced her bid for the Female Workers Member of Parliament seat in Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
Mugerwa, who currently serves as General Secretary of the Uganda Musicians Association and Vice Chairperson of the Uganda National Culture Centre board, made the announcement during a press conference held in Kampala on Tuesday.
The event drew musicians, media representatives, and labour union officials.
“I come not just as a musician but as a workers’ advocate,I understand the struggles low wages, job insecurity, unsafe working conditions, and gender-based harassment. These are the issues I intend to bring to the floor of Parliament.” Mugerwa stated.
Mugerwa emphasized that her career in the arts has taught her resilience and persistence qualities she believes are essential for championing labour rights. Her platform includes strengthening cooperatives within labour unions and expanding access to financial support for workers.
She also highlighted plans to use edutainment a blend of education and entertainment to raise awareness of workers’ rights, leveraging her influence in the music industry to engage and inform the public.
“I’m not here to make empty promises. I’m here to act. Your struggles are mine. Your fight is my fight,” she declared.
Veteran labour leader Wilson Owere, former Chairperson General of the Amalgamated Transport and General Workers Union, welcomed Mugerwa’s decision, citing the urgent need for leaders who can bridge the gap between Parliament and the labour force.
“There’s a disconnect between workers and policymakers. Phina is energetic and passionate I see leadership potential in her,” said Owere. However, he cautioned that navigating the labour sector’s entrenched challenges, including limited space for new voices and political interference, will require resilience.
“If you stay true to your mission, you’ll have our support,” he told Phina Mugerwa. “But if you fall short, I won’t hesitate to call it out.” He also urged more youth to step into leadership roles within labour movements.
Mugerwa enters the race for a seat currently held by Agnes Kunihira of the ruling NRM party, who was recently confirmed as the party’s unopposed flagbearer.
According to the Electoral Commission, nominations for directly elected MPs are set for October 15–16, 2025.
Beyond her musical career, Mugerwa also serves as the Guild President of the Labour College of East Africa.
She rose to fame in 2006, earning the nickname “Uganda’s Shakira” for her electrifying stage performances. Her alias “Masanyalaze,” derived from her breakout hit, continues to define her public image.
