When you think of outspoken, energetic, and slightly unpredictable figures in Uganda’s opposition politics, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro probably makes that list. He’s not just another politician with a press pass and a party badge—he’s someone who speaks with fire and fights with words. Whether you agree with him or not, he’s hard to ignore.
From Jinja to the National Stage
Born on March 17, 1976 (age 49 years) in the heart of Jinja, Eastern Uganda, Waiswa grew up like many Ugandan kids—close to family, surrounded by siblings, and doing school runs in dusty shoes. He later moved to Kampala for further studies, but his journey into leadership had already begun.
He attended Kibibi Secondary School in Butambala, finishing both his O and A levels there. Later, he joined Uganda Christian University (UCU) in Mukono, where he would soon find himself at the center of both power and controversy.
Marriage, Family, and Life Outside Politics
In December 2022, just a week after being officially introduced to his in-laws, Waiswa tied the knot with Edith. The two exchanged vows at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Namirembe, then hosted friends and family at One Love Beach Busabala for a beachside reception.
A Political Journey That’s Seen a Few Parties
If there’s one thing you can’t accuse Waiswa of, it’s staying in his comfort zone. Over the years, he has bounced through some of Uganda’s most prominent opposition parties—from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) in the late 2000s, to Democratic Party (DP), and finally finding a home in the National Unity Platform (NUP) in 2020.
He joined NUP after being part of the People Power Movement, which kicked off in 2018 under Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known as Bobi Wine.
Today, Waiswa wears two important hats in NUP: Deputy Spokesperson and Head of Training and Capacity Building. In plain language, he’s one of the loudest voices defending the party and one of the key minds shaping how members grow within it.
Not Just Words—He’s Tried the Ballot Too
In 2021, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro ran for MP in Jinja City South Division West, but things didn’t go his way. He came third with 1,964 votes, behind Grace Balyeku (NRM) and Timothy Batuwa Lusala (FDC), who took the win with 4,801 votes.
But Waiswa isn’t packing up just yet. He’s gearing up for 2026, and in his own words, he “hopes to move mountains.” This wasn’t his first attempt—and probably won’t be his last.
A Stormy Past at UCU
One of Waiswa’s most controversial moments came during his time as Guild President at UCU in 2017. He was suspended after being implicated in a guild fund scandal involving 12 million shillings. The money was meant to buy a TV for students. Instead, a TV worth 2 million was bought, and the rest of the money mysteriously vanished.
The university’s Vice Chancellor at the time, Professor Stephen Noll, suspended Waiswa and said, “The actions of the guild leaders were disappointing and damaging to the integrity of the university.”
Whether it was bad judgment or political sabotage, it left a stain on his record—but not enough to stop his rise.
Waiswa vs. Gashumba: A TV Showdown
If you tuned into NBS TV’s Barometer show on May 24, you saw a heated exchange that turned into a viral moment. Waiswa tore into businessman Frank Gashumba, calling him a “confusion monger”, an “obscene person”, and “the most heinous man I’ve ever met.” It was raw, emotional, and classic Waiswa.
He even told NBS producers, “Make sure the people you invite here are respectful,” hinting that Gashumba had no moral ground to criticize the youth.
Say what you will about him—Waiswa doesn’t hold back.
Money Talks (Sometimes Loudly)
In terms of finances, Waiswa seems to be doing alright. He earned about UGX 40 million in 2022, and his estimated net worth is around UGX 250 million. As Deputy Spokesperson, insiders say he could be making over UGX 50 million per year.
Not bad for someone who’s spent more time on talk shows than in Parliament.
What’s Next for Mufumbiro?
The road to 2026 is wide open, and Waiswa isn’t slowing down. He may have lost a few races, but his voice in Uganda’s political conversation remains loud—and sometimes controversial. Whether he makes it to Parliament or not, one thing’s clear: he’s already carved a name for himself.
If you’re watching Uganda’s politics, keep an eye on Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro. He’s not done yet—and he probably has a few more headlines in him.
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