Robert Maseruka’s grassroots support was bolstered by the strong endorsement of NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, who campaigned in Mukono South three times. This momentum carried Maseruka to victory in the January 2026 general elections, where he secured 19,621 votes to defeat the incumbent and become one of the youngest Members of Parliament in Uganda.
Who is Robert Maseruka?
Robert Maseruka is a young politician hailing from Nakisunga village in Mukono District. Born on February 24, 2000, to Simon Ssetuba and Joseline Nanfuka, his rapid rise in politics may surprise many. However, his leadership journey began early; he served as a class monitor as early as nursery school and later as a Chapel Prefect at WellStar Bright Secondary School.
In 2020, Maseruka enrolled at Makerere University to pursue a degree in Journalism and Communication. His leadership at the university level started immediately when he was elected Class President during his first year. He subsequently served as a Guild Representative Councillor (GRC), building the foundation for his future political endeavours.
His national profile grew significantly in April 2023 when he was elected the 89th Guild President of Makerere University. Running on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, his victory at Uganda’s oldest university established him as a rising star within the party and a voice for the youth.
In 2025, Robert Maseruka declared his intention to run for the Mukono South parliamentary seat. The position was then held by Hon. Fred Kayondo of the Democratic Party. Maseruka’s entry into the race required navigating internal party dynamics, particularly after former MP Hon. Muyanja Ssenyonga defected from the NRM to the NUP and initially expressed interest in the same seat.
Reports suggest that NUP party leadership convinced Hon. Ssenyonga to contest for the Mukono District LC5 Chairperson seat instead. This strategic shift occurred because the relationship between the party and the incumbent LC5 Chairman, Hon. Bakaluba Mukasa, had reportedly soured, opening a path for Maseruka to run for Parliament unopposed within the party.
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