SHEEMA, Uganda — Jemimah Buhanda Tumwijukye, the veteran LCV chairperson of Sheema District, has stirred public debate after telling voters that her current term is a time for her to “sleep” and enjoy the rewards of years of hard work while encouraging residents to continue working hard themselves.
The 75 year old leader made the remarks, saying she had spent decades serving people and now deserved time to enjoy the success she had built together with her family.
“This term is for me to sleep and enjoy my family’s success after hard work,” Buhanda reportedly said, remarks that quickly spread across social media and local political circles.
Her comments triggered mixed reactions among residents and political observers. Some critics described the statement as insensitive at a time when leaders are expected to remain fully active in addressing community challenges. Others defended her, arguing that the longtime politician was simply being honest about her age, experience and years of sacrifice in public service.
Buhanda remains one of the most recognizable female political figures in western Uganda. Born in 1953 in Kabale District, she rose through grassroots leadership positions over several years before eventually becoming a district level politician.
She attended Nyabushabi Primary School and Kigezi High School before training as a teacher at Buwalasi Teachers College in Mbale. She later worked with Uganda Posts and Telecommunications, where she met her husband, Elimunsi Buhanda.
After retirement, the couple settled in Kateete Village in Sheema District and built their family while investing in business and education. Their family is associated with commercial properties and Kihunda Parents Secondary School.
Buhanda’s political journey started from village and parish leadership before she became a councillor in the former Bushenyi District. She later served as deputy speaker before Sheema became an independent district in 2010.
Known for her persistence, Buhanda returned to school in her later years and earned a diploma in guidance and counselling from Ankole Western University in 2016. Despite suffering a serious road accident that affected her knee, she continued pursuing leadership and education.
In 2020, she made history after emerging as the only female NRM flag bearer for the LC5 position in western Uganda. She later defeated several male competitors, including incumbent David Kabigumira, before taking office in 2021.
Throughout her political career, Buhanda has consistently spoken about unity, transparency and development. She has often said she wants to unite people in Sheema instead of encouraging divisions based on religion or political camps.
Supporters describe her as experienced, hardworking and development minded. Others praise her for supporting vulnerable families through bursaries, counselling programs and community initiatives.
Even with growing debate over her latest remarks, Buhanda has repeatedly defended her leadership style, insisting that age should not be mistaken for weakness.
“I know I’m old but with brains and experience that will turn Sheema into a better district,” she once said.
Her latest comments now add another chapter to the discussion surrounding long serving politicians in Uganda, where questions about legacy, leadership energy and public expectations continue shaping local politics ahead of future elections.
