NBS TV journalist Samuel Ibanda Mugabi has been elected as the new President of the Uganda Parliamentary Press Association beating his rival Francis Lubega with over 10 votes.
Ibanda polled 76 votes against 64 votes for his rival Ibanda/Lubega. 141 journalists cast the votes in today’s election. Only one vote was flagged as invalid.
Ibanda won the hotly-contested election held today in parliament as the journalist’s body changed leadership through after 4 wweeks of aggressive but largely peaceful campaigns.
Ibanda replaces New Vision’s Mulondo Moses who did not contest after serving two consecutive terms of 2 years. According to UPPA constitution, a president cannot serve more than 2 terms in office.
13 executive positions were up for elections but many positions went uncontested as cmajority of candidates went unopposed.
Others who were elected today include Gloria Gwitabingi (UBC) who is the new Vice President, Tusiime Apollo of Salt Media (Secretary General) Damalie Mukhaye for Daily Monitor (Dep SG) and Nakasi Rachael of Bukedde TV who was elected as the new Treasurer.
“Glory to God. It was not an easy election but the Lord was with us.” Ibanda said after he was declared winner.
He committed to work towards improving journalists’ welfare and fight for rights of journalists especially in areas of welfare. He also extended a hand to Lubega to share his progressive ideas in order to build a formidable UPPA.
