By Eye Media Reporter
Kamuli
In nearly every village of Buzaaya County, unique makeshift “political shrines” have sprung up—each artistically decorated with posters of Counsel Muzuusa Stephen, the man many voters now see as the fresh face of hope and unity.
Constructed using traditional materials like maize stalks, banana fibers, and thatched roofs, the shrines—found in places like Nawanyago, Matuumu, Izaniro, Namulikya, Nawangoma, Busandha, and Bukyonza—have become popular community gathering points. They reflect not just Muzuusa’s growing popularity but also the creative spirit of his supporters.
At the heart of each shrine is a symbolic display that mirrors the look of traditional fortune-tellers’ shrines. The shrine custodians, often young passionate volunteers, have equipped the spaces with sea shells placed in woven baskets, a few coins, and dried coffee beans, evoking the imagery of traditional spiritual sites where people once sought blessings and answers.
In a further creative touch, Muzuusa’s supporters have also surrounded the shrines with Lippia javanica—a green shrub locally known as Omulamula, which is very common at traditional shrines in both Busoga and Buganda. Culturally, Omulamula is believed to bring good fortune and is traditionally used to “determine” who is right or mightier between two or more disputing parties—a practice that inspired its Luganda name, derived from the word “kulamula” (to judge or arbitrate).
Adding to the festive mood, every shrine features a lively group of enthusiastic young men armed with drums, beating out rhythms while singing songs of praise to Muzuusa. The air is often filled with chants calling for peaceful change and for a new era of leadership in Buzaaya.
Muzuusa Stephen, a well-known and dependable lawyer, has over the years built a reputation as a caring leader, close to the grassroots and dedicated to transforming lives.
His campaign has attracted a wave of youthful energy and support, particularly from women and ambitious young people, weary of the violence and divisions associated with political old camps in their constituency.
“These shrines symbolize hope for us. Muzuusa is not a man of chaos. He is our leader of peace and progress,” said a youth leader from Busandha.
Throughout his campaign, Muzuusa has called for unity, tolerance, and issue-based politics.
“As your servant, I commit to leading with humility, respect, and fairness. Buzaaya deserves peace, and together we can make that happen,” he told supporters at one of the shrine gatherings in Kabembe.
As the 2025 NRM primaries draw closer, these political shrines are not only winning hearts but also sending a clear message. What is your guess?
