The atmosphere at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) on April 24, 2026, was electric, marked by the culmination of a high-stakes race for the 38th Guild Presidency. As the final ballots were counted, a clear mandate emerged: Mr. Twinomugisha Conrad, affectionately known by his supporters as “Jagaban,” secured a decisive victory with 1040 votes, surpassing Mr. Arimpa Kenneth, who finished with 800 votes.
L-R: The the cool dude,CBE for the Jagaban and Jagaban during campaign.
The Journey of a “Foot Soldier”: Conrad’s path to the presidency is a story of steady, grassroots leadership. Raised in Kazo District by Twinomugisha Fred and Twinemukama Agnes, he carries the values of discipline and community responsibility into the halls of student governance. A proud alumnus of Ntare School, Conrad brought a refined sense of service to his undergraduate years as a Mechanical Engineering student.
Before his presidential win, Conrad proved his mettle in the trenches of student politics:
- 37th GRC for Mechanical Engineering: Where he first championed student grievances.
- Inaugural President of the Association of Mechanical Engineering Students: A role where he demonstrated his ability to build institutions from the ground up.
Self-identifying as a “foot soldier,” Jagaban has built his reputation on being grounded and accessible. His “Warrior” movement wasn’t just a campaign slogan; it was a call for a solution-driven, unified student body.
A message from the Vice Chancellor
In the wake of the election results, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, extended her warmest congratulations to the President-elect. In an official statement, she underscored the importance of a collaborative relationship between the guild and the university leadership.
“On behalf of the University Management, I congratulate Hon. Twinomugisha Conrad on his election as the 38th Guild President,” the Vice Chancellor noted. “We look forward to a productive partnership that bridges the gap between the student body and the administration. It is through this vital connection that we can ensure a conducive environment for academic excellence and student welfare. We are ready to work together to take MUST to greater heights.”
A Sunday of Unity: The First Act
Just two days after his victory, on April 26, 2026, the President-elect began his tenure not with a victory parade, but with a pilgrimage of peace. Recognizing the inevitable divisions that come with a hard-fought election, Conrad spent his first Sunday visiting both the St. Luke’s Chaplaincy (Anglican) and the corpus Christi Catholic community.
Standing before the congregations, his message was singular and resonant: Unity over Division.
“The elections are behind us,” Conrad stated. “Politics will always exist, but now it is time to heal, to rebuild trust, and to move forward together for the good of our university. Division weakens us, but unity strengthens us.”
Looking Ahead
In his address, Conrad took a moment to express gratitude to his mentors, specifically highlighting Mr. Denis Lukaaya for his guidance. By positioning himself as a “servant leader,” the President-elect signaled a shift toward dialogue and cooperation.
As the 38th Guild administration begins, the MUST community looks forward to a leadership style that promises to listen first and act decisively. Congratulations to Hon. Twinomugisha Conrad the “Jagaban” of the people as he takes the helm to build a stronger, more united MUST.
