The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has today officially unveiled singer Mukiibi Sadat, popularly known as Kalifah Aganaga, as its flagbearer for the upcoming Kawempe North by-election.
The announcement was made at the FDC party headquarters in Najjanankumbi, where Kalifah expressed his enthusiasm about the new political journey.
Kalifah, who has long been vocal about his political ambitions, is no stranger to the political arena.
In 2019, he announced his intention to contest for the Rubaga South parliamentary seat in the 2021 general elections. The seat was then held by the late Kato Lubwama. At the time, Kalifah sought the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket but was unsuccessful in securing the nomination, leading him to withdraw from the race altogether.
Speaking at the unveiling, Kalifah highlighted the unique position artists hold in political spheres.
“An artiste does not need to print posters or bribe the masses to gain public recognition if they decide to run for a political office,” he said.
He further predicted a growing intersection between music and politics, stating, “Very soon, maybe in five year’s time, being a musician will be one of the qualifications for becoming a politician.”
The Kawempe North parliamentary seat became vacant following the death of NUP’s Muhammad Ssegirinya on January 9, 2025. The by-election is scheduled to take place on March 13, 2025.