Shumuk Mukesh Declares Interest in Nakawa West MP Seat Under NRM, Citing SMART Leadership Vision

Prominent businessman and long-time supporter of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Shukla Mukesh, today officially picked nomination forms from the NRM electoral commission, expressing his interest in contesting for the Nakawa West parliamentary seat in the 2026 general elections.

Speaking with characteristic charisma and clarity at the NRM Secretariat in Kampala, Mukesh emphasized his motivation for joining the political race, declaring: “Basically, I enjoy competition. Let’s enjoy the mission because this is socio-economic transformation — only business, nothing else.” He further anchored his vision on what he termed “SMART leadership,” which he defined as:

S – Specific

M – Measurable

A – Achievable R –

Realized

T – Targets

According to Mukesh, his leadership approach is rooted in practical deliverables and focused objectives designed to transform communities through economic empowerment and development-oriented representation.

A Business Titan Turns Political Aspirant

Widely known as the founder and chairman of the Shumuk Group of Companies, Mukesh has over the years cemented his status as a key player in Uganda’s business landscape. He is also renowned for his active involvement in the affairs of the NRM, where he has served as a mobilizer and vocal advocate for private sector-led development.

His entrance into elective politics, while not unexpected, marks a significant step in what appears to be a well-orchestrated political journey. With deep roots in Nakawa West, Mukesh has for long positioned himself as a bridge between the government and the business community — particularly small and medium enterprises.

As the leader of local business owners, he has used his influence to unify diverse stakeholders within the constituency. His ability to speak the language of traders, artisans, and budding entrepreneurs has earned him a reputation as a grassroots-friendly figure, blending boardroom strategy with street-level empathy.

Strategic Campaigning Within the NRM

Insiders within the NRM describe Mukesh as a formidable force whose methodical campaign strategy is already drawing attention. Having built strategic alliances with influential figures both at the national and constituency levels, Mukesh has managed to align himself with the party’s priorities, particularly the push for socio-economic transformation as envisioned under Vision 2040 and the Parish Development Model.

His decision to contest under the NRM ticket further demonstrates his loyalty to the party, which he has publicly supported for years. As nomination processes continue, Mukesh is expected to galvanize support not only from business circles but also from ordinary constituents who see in him a pragmatic leader.

Mukesh's aspirations come at a time when Ugandans are increasingly demanding responsive and accountable leadership. Should he make it through the party primaries and win in the 2026 elections, his role as a Member of Parliament (MP) would include:

Legislation: Participating in debates and passing laws that guide the nation’s development trajectory.

Representation: Voicing the needs, challenges, and proposals of Nakawa West residents in the national Parliament.

Budget Approval: Scrutinizing and approving the national budget, ensuring that allocations reflect constituent priorities.

Oversight: Monitoring government performance, ensuring value for public funds, and holding ministries accountable for any irregularities.

The NRM expression of interest period, which began on 2nd June 2025, is scheduled to conclude on 15th June 2025. This window has seen a flurry of activity as party loyalists position themselves for the 2026 general elections.

With his nomination now official, Mukesh joins a competitive field of aspirants eyeing Nakawa West, a constituency that has increasingly drawn attention due to its dynamic urban demographic and economic potential.

As the political tide begins to swell ahead of the 2026 elections, Shumuk Mukesh’s entry into the Nakawa West race under the NRM banner has added a fresh dynamic to the constituency’s political landscape. Combining business acumen with grassroots appeal and strategic party alliances, Mukesh appears set to redefine what it means to represent a modern urban constituency. His focus on SMART leadership and socio-economic transformation could resonate strongly with voters looking for practical change.

Only time will tell how far his mission-driven politics will take him — but one thing is clear: Mukesh is in this to compete and, possibly, to lead.