SHEEMA – The political landscape of Sheema Municipality is set to heat up ahead of the 2026 elections as Chrispas Ariyo Katunda, an ambitious and dynamic leader, steps into the ring to challenge the incumbent MP, Dicksons Kateshumbwa, and former heavyweight Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye. Chrispas Katunda, the son-in-law to Hon. Prof. Mushemeza Elijah Dickens, the MP for Sheema County South, has thrown his hat into the race with a bold promise to transform the municipality and empower its people, particularly the youth.
Chrispas Katunda, who hails from Kakindo Cell, Kyagaju Ward in Sheema Municipality, brings a wealth of leadership experience and a track record of impact. From his school days as deputy head boy at Rwabutura Primary School, deputy head boy and later head prefect at Sheema Premier School during his O’level and A’level studies respectively, Chrispas has consistently shown a natural ability to lead and inspire.
His leadership journey continued at the university level, where he served as the GRC Faculty of Business Administration at Metropolitan International University. Beyond academia, Chrispas currently holds influential leadership roles as the interline chairman of Victors Investment Club-Mbarara and treasurer of Mbarara Corporate Facilities Managers, two associations boasting a combined membership of over 1,000 people.
As a finalist pursuing a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management at Kampala International University (KIU), Chrispas combines education with experience, positioning himself as a forward-thinking leader ready to take Sheema Municipality to new heights. Notably, he is the director of Xpress Facilities Management and SMUT Ushering Services, two enterprises that have created over 250 jobs for youth, a clear testament to his dedication to empowering young people.
Chrispas Katunda is not only a leader in professional spaces but also a trusted family leader, guiding a biological family of nine. He believes that effective leadership starts at home, stating, “Leading a family requires trust, resilience, and patience—qualities that are equally critical in political leadership.”
His experience as a communications specialist further sets him apart. Chrispas has worked in high-profile political offices, serving as Director of Communications for his father-in-law, Hon. Prof. Mushemeza Elijah Dickens, since 2020. He has also worked with prominent figures such as Hon. Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru, Hon. Annastacia Muthini Muendo (MP Yata Constituency, Kenya), Hon. Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye, and Hon. Balaam Barugahara, among others. His exposure to political processes and governance, both locally and regionally, has equipped him with the knowledge and experience necessary to represent Sheema Municipality effectively.
Chrispas resigned from his communications role in April this year to fully focus on his political aspirations. His mission is clear: to bring transformative leadership to Sheema Municipality, with a focus on youth empowerment, job creation, and infrastructural development.
In an area dominated by political giants like Kateshumbwa Dicksons, the current MP, and former MP Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye, Chrispas Katunda’s entry into the race has already stirred excitement. His ties to Prof. Mushemeza Elijah Dickens have fueled speculation and given the contest a unique dynamic. However, Chrispas is quick to point out that his candidacy is not about family alliances but about delivering results.
“I have seen the challenges faced by the youth, small business owners, and families in Sheema Municipality. My experience in leadership, job creation, and communication gives me the tools to bring real change. This election is about ideas, vision, and solutions, not individuals,” Chrispas asserts.
With his combination of leadership skills, education, and hands-on experience in economic empowerment, Chrispas Katunda believes he is the right person to take Sheema Municipality into a brighter future. His campaign has already begun to resonate with voters, particularly the youth, who see him as a beacon of hope and a leader who understands their struggles.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, Sheema Municipality is shaping up to be a battleground where legacy, experience, and innovation will collide. Will Chrispas Ariyo Katunda, the young and determined leader, upset the incumbency of Kateshumbwa Dicksons and outmaneuver the formidable Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Chrispas Katunda’s entry into the race has changed the game in Sheema Municipality.
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