Munyagwa Mubarak, widely known by his political moniker Mugati Gwa Bata, has spoken openly about the financial strain he continues to face following Uganda’s recently concluded presidential elections held on 15 January 2026.

Mubarak, who contested for the presidency under the Common Man’s Party (CMP) and currently serves as the party’s chairman, garnered 31,666 votes nationwide. While the figure placed him among the lesser-known contenders in a crowded race, his post-election reflections have drawn attention to the often-overlooked economic realities faced by non-incumbent politicians.

Speaking on his current circumstances, Mubarak revealed that debts and pressure from money lenders have become a significant burden in the aftermath of the campaign.

“Very few people contest in elections without ending up in debt,” he noted, arguing that Uganda’s political environment remains heavily monetized, especially disadvantaging opposition candidates.

He further contrasted his experience with that of the ruling establishment, suggesting that only incumbents particularly President Yoweri Museveni and the NRM flag bearer, operate within a system where access to resources significantly cushions campaign expenses.

Mubarak disclosed that to sustain his political activities, he has, over the years, sold personal assets including land, a sacrifice he says underscores his commitment to political change rather than personal gain.

Despite the financial pressure, the Common Man’s Party chairman struck a resilient tone, insisting that the sacrifices would eventually bear fruit.

“All these efforts shall never go in vain. We will win one,” Mubarak said, describing the belief as the motivation that keeps him going amid economic hardship.

His remarks reignite a broader national debate on campaign financing, political equity, and the sustainability of opposition politics in Uganda, particularly for candidates operating outside the ruling party’s resource networks.

Politics is not a do-or-die game. Crying over a loss is the least I would expect from those who didn’t win.- Hon. Mubarak Munyagwa#SanyukaUnCut #SanyukaUpdates #FfeBannoDdala pic.twitter.com/v65ea7ydka

— Sanyuka TV (@sanyukatv) January 27, 2026