Musician and cultural leader Phina Mugerwa, popularly known as Phina Masanyalaze, has declared her intention to contest for the position of Female Workers Member of Parliament in the 2026 general election.
Mugerwa, who is also the General Secretary of the Uganda Musicians Association and Vice Chairperson of the Uganda National Culture Centre Board, announced her bid on Tuesday during a press conference in Kampala attended by journalists, fellow artists, and representatives of labour unions.
“I come not just as a musician but as a workers’ advocate. I know the challenges workers face such as low pay, job insecurity, and unsafe working conditions. Women workers also face harassment and unequal treatment. These are the issues I want to raise in Parliament,” said Mugerwa.
She noted that her experience in the creative industry has taught her resilience and determination, which she intends to apply to advance workers’ rights. She further pledged to support the formation of cooperatives among labour unions and help them access financial tools for growth.
Mugerwa added that she plans to use edutainment—a blend of education and entertainment—to communicate labour rights, given music’s power to connect with Ugandans. “I am not here to make promises. I am here to take action. Your struggles are my struggles. Your fight will be my fight,” she emphasized.
Veteran labour unionist Usher Wilson Owere, the Emeritus Chairman General of the Amalgamated Transport and General Workers Union, welcomed her decision to contest, saying fresh leadership is needed to bridge the gap between workers and Parliament. “There is a big gap between workers and the decision-makers. We need someone who can help bridge that gap. Phina is energetic, and I see potential in her leadership,” Owere said.
He however, cautioned Mugerwa about the challenges in the labour sector, including limited space for new leaders and outside influences, urging her to remain steadfast. “If you don’t do a good job, I will not hesitate to speak out. But if you stay true to your words, you will have our support,” he added. Owere also called on more young people to join the labour movement.
Mugerwa’s declaration adds a new voice to the growing list of contenders for the Female Workers MP seat currently held by Agnes Kunihira of the ruling NRM, who sailed through as the party’s unopposed flagbearer. The Electoral Commission, chaired by Justice Simon Byabakama, will nominate directly elected MPs between October 15–16, 2025. Mugerwa, also serving as Guild President of the Labour College of East Africa, rose to stardom in 2006 when she was nicknamed Uganda’s Shakira for her energetic performances. Her stage name Masanyalaze—borrowed from her debut hit single that won her several awards—remains her brand identity.
