Kibirige Kassim (born 1997) is a Ugandan politician and community activist. He is a member of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) and an aspiring candidate for the parliamentary seat of Nakawa East Constituency in Kampala in the 2026 general elections.
Early life and education
Kibirige Kassim was born and raised in Mutungo Zone 4, Nakawa East, a place that has shaped much of who he is today. He started his education at Kasasa R/C Primary School in Masaka, before moving back to Kampala where he joined Luzira Secondary School for his O-Level studies.
For A-Levels, he attended Matugga Mixed Secondary School. He later enrolled at Victoria University, where he is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree.
Growing up in Mutungo, Kassim saw first-hand the everyday struggles of his community — from poor infrastructure to limited opportunities for young people. Those experiences pushed him early towards leadership and community work.
Early leadership
His first real step into leadership came in 2016, when at a young age he was elected Youth Chairperson of Mutungo Zone 4. It was a local role, but it gave him a platform to speak out and organize on issues affecting the youth in his area. Five years later, in 2021, he contested for the LC3 councillor seat, an experience that placed him firmly in Nakawa’s political circles even though he didn’t win.
Political career
In 2025, at just 28 years old, Kassim announced his intention to run for Member of Parliament for Nakawa East in the 2026 elections. He is seeking the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, positioning himself as a fresh voice in a constituency that has long dealt with underrepresentation.
His entry into the race has already attracted attention. The incumbent MP, Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga, is not returning as he is instead contesting for the Kampala Lord Mayorship. That has left the NUP ticket open, setting up a tough internal contest between Kassim and Waiswa Mufumbiro, a senior figure in the party known for his outspoken presence in national politics.
Speaking about why he joined the race, Kassim has said: “My candidature is not just a personal ambition. It’s a reflection of the voices in Nakawa East who feel left out, unheard, and underserved.”
Vision and priorities
Kassim’s campaign is built around youth empowerment, community development, and social justice. He has repeatedly pointed to his grassroots background as proof that he understands what ordinary residents of Nakawa East go through every day. He promises to focus on transparency, accountability, and creating opportunities for young people if elected.
Achievements and recognition
While still at the start of his political journey, Kassim is already known locally as a community activist and grassroots leader. His work as Youth Chairperson in Mutungo Zone 4, his run for LC3 councillor, and his push for a parliamentary seat have made him a familiar name in Nakawa East politics.
For many supporters, his youth is not a weakness but a strength — a chance to bring fresh energy and perspective into Parliament.
