Katana Benjamin, the treasurer of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has expressed his intention to run as a candidate for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the upcoming elections for the Igara East Constituency parliamentary seat in Bushenyi district.
Katana has been vocal about his intentions to re-enter the political arena, sharing with friends and family his desire to contest once more, this time under the NRM banner. A close friend, Ivan Niwandinda, revealed that during a closed meeting on September 13, 2024, at K Hotel in Entebbe, Katana sought their support for his candidacy.
Sources close to Katana have indicated that he has faced frustrations from the family of Bobi Wine regarding financial matters, with accusations of a lack of transparency that have left him annoyed. Katana, who values accountability, has used his affiliation with NUP to amass considerable wealth, which he believes will enhance his chances in the forthcoming elections.
In a recent visit to the residence of Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwe, Katana was introduced to influential figures within the NRM who have pledged their support for his campaign.
Katana’s experience as the NUP treasurer has equipped him with funds, insights, and connections that he plans to leverage in his campaign. This networking is crucial as he aims to gain support from prominent party figures, thereby increasing his visibility and credibility among voters.
Already, Katana has commenced his campaign efforts, focusing on grassroots mobilization in both his constituency and Kampala. He is actively engaging with supporters and organizing gatherings to encourage voter turnout in his favor.
This decision marks a significant shift for Katana, who previously lost to Mawanda in the 2016 elections.