Ugandan singer and politician Kalifah AgaNaga has announced plans to return to the political arena, saying he intends to contest for the Kawempe North parliamentary seat in the 2031 general elections.
The Bad Character Records boss, whose real name is Saddat Mukiibi, says his political ambitions remain active despite sitting out the 2026 election cycle.
AgaNaga expressed confidence that he can compete for the seat and give voters another option when the next general election arrives.
For the singer, the decision marks a continuation of a political journey he says began earlier and is not yet complete.
Why Kalifah AgaNaga Did Not Contest in 2026
AgaNaga explained that he chose not to participate in the 2026 general elections after his political party agreed to support Hon. Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola in order to avoid dividing opposition support.
According to the musician, the decision came after discussions surrounding the Kawempe North by-election and concerns that multiple opposition candidates could weaken their chances.
“The reason I didn’t participate in the 2026 general election is because, as a political party, we agreed to support Hon. Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola so that we wouldn’t split the opposition vote,” AgaNaga said.
He added that, at the time, the party believed supporting Nalukoola was the best political strategy.
“After everything that happened following the Kawempe North by-election, we believed it was the right decision,” he explained.
AgaNaga Says Voters Will Judge Nalukoola’s Performance
Looking ahead to 2031, AgaNaga said voters will ultimately decide whether Nalukoola deserves another term.
The singer said his decision to contest will depend on how the current MP performs and addresses issues affecting residents of Kawempe North.
“In 2031, we’ll assess what he has done for the people and let the voters decide,” AgaNaga said.
He also argued that the concerns facing residents have increased, suggesting that there will be a need for leaders who can address those challenges.
“We started this journey, and we’re not giving up. The issues affecting the people are now even greater,” he said.
AgaNaga referenced the work of other political figures, including Hon. Balaam, as an example of public service and questioned why he should not continue pursuing his own political ambitions.
Singer Turns His Attention to Politics
Kalifah AgaNaga is among a number of Ugandan entertainers who have explored political careers, using their public profiles to engage with communities and advocate for leadership positions.
Known primarily for his music career, the artist has increasingly expressed interest in public service and political representation.
His planned 2031 parliamentary bid would place him in another electoral contest for the Kawempe North seat, a constituency that has attracted significant political attention in recent years.
AgaNaga Predicts Tough Race Ahead
The singer also suggested that Nalukoola could face a difficult challenge in 2031 if residents believe their expectations have not been met.
“Definitely, he’s going to lose his seat because we’re yet to see what he has done for the people,” AgaNaga said.
The statement reflects AgaNaga’s confidence in his own chances but remains his personal assessment of the political situation.
The eventual outcome will depend on voters and the political landscape closer to the 2031 elections.
Why It Matters
AgaNaga’s announcement adds another layer to Uganda’s growing relationship between entertainment and politics.
Artists with large public followings have increasingly entered political spaces, using their platforms to campaign, advocate and seek elected positions.
For Kawempe North voters, the 2031 race could bring another contest shaped by competing visions, public records and the priorities of residents.
With several years still remaining before the election, much can change politically before candidates officially face voters.
For AgaNaga, the planned return to politics represents unfinished business.
After stepping aside in 2026 to support another candidate, he says he remains committed to representing the people of Kawempe North and believes the issues affecting residents require continued attention.
Whether voters agree with his assessment will ultimately be decided at the ballot box in 2031.