MUKONO — Investigative journalist Solomon Serwanjja has won the LC1 chairperson seat for Bamutakudde Village in Mukono District after a closely contested election decided by a margin of just one vote.
Serwanjja, who contested as an Independent candidate, emerged victorious after narrowly defeating two other contenders in the village-level election.
The race attracted three candidates: Lule Badru Ssozi Kirwana, who contested on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket; Serwanjja, an Independent; and fellow Independent candidate David Kyambadde Zziwa.
According to preliminary results, Serwanjja secured victory by a single vote, making the Bamutakudde LC1 race one of the closest contests in the ongoing local leadership elections.
The journalist, known for his investigative reporting and anti-corruption work, entered elective politics at the grassroots level, seeking to lead his local community as its first-level local government chairperson.
Serwanjja has previously worked with several Ugandan media organisations and gained recognition for investigative journalism, including his work on accountability, governance and public interest issues.
His transition from journalism into community leadership reflects a growing trend of media personalities joining politics and public service after years of engagement on national issues.
LC1 chairpersons serve as the first point of contact between citizens and government at village level, overseeing local administration, community mobilisation, dispute resolution and coordination of government programmes.
The one-vote victory underscores the competitive nature of village elections, where small margins can determine leadership outcomes due to the close-knit nature of communities.
Serwanjja is expected to assume office as chairperson of Bamutakudde Village after the conclusion of the official electoral processes and declaration by relevant local authorities.
