Keep Off Youth Elections : Mercy Kanyesigye Warns Non-Youths

National Female Youth MP-elect Mercy Kanyesigye has extended an olive branch to her opponents following her victory in the recently concluded youth parliamentary elections.

Kanyesigye emerged victorious in polls held on February 16, 2026, at Hoima Stadium, after securing 216 votes. Her victory was subsequently challenged in court by her closest rival, Diana Ampaire, who petitioned for a recount. However, on Tuesday, court dismissed the application and upheld Kanyesigye’s election.

Speaking during her first public media address on Friday at Kati Kati Restaurant in Kampala, Kanyesigye said her win was a testament to the will of the people .

“God delivered this victory,” Kanyesigye said. “I am grateful that the will of the people was respected, and I commend the Judiciary for giving us a fair hearing.”

She noted that while Ampaire petitioned court seeking a recount, the election was conducted transparently and in broad daylight.

“We took pictures and videos of all the ballot papers. To our surprise, during the court process, we noticed different serial numbers being raised. I am glad my legal team stood firm and fought, and our victory was upheld,” she said.

Kanyesigye, who contested as an independent candidate, pledged to work with all youth leaders, including those who opposed her, through existing party and youth structures.

“I want to extend an olive branch to my opponents. Join me and let us push the youth agenda together. Our efforts will not go in vain,” she said.

She further pledged to establish a dedicated youth desk to ease young people’s access to government programmes such as Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Programme, and Parish Development Model (PDM).

“Young people voted for me because I understand them, and they understand me,” Kanyesigye said.

She also cautioned against undue interference in youth elections, urging stakeholders to allow young people to make independent decisions free from external influence.