Senior investigative journalist Solomon Serwanjja has been elected LC1 chairperson of Bamutakudde Village in Mukono District following the Local Council I elections held on Tuesday, 28 July 2026.
Serwanjja secured victory in a tightly contested race, winning by a margin of just one vote.
Widely known for his investigative reporting, Serwanjja is a former NBS TV news reporter and anchor and the founder of the Africa Institute for Investigative Journalism (AIIJ). His election marks a significant transition from journalism to grassroots leadership, although he has made it clear that he has no intention of abandoning his investigative work.
Speaking during a television interview last week, Serwanjja said his decision to contest for the LC1 chairperson position was driven by his desire to contribute to Uganda's transformation from the grassroots level.
He also acknowledged concerns about balancing his journalism career with his new leadership responsibilities. In response, he said he plans to establish a dedicated LC1 office where residents will be able to report complaints and access services even when he is away on professional assignments.
For years, many LC1 chairpersons across Uganda have operated without official offices, conducting community business from their homes. Serwanjja says he wants to change that by creating a more accessible and professional working environment for residents.
He believes that public service and investigative journalism complement each other, arguing that both are aimed at promoting accountability, justice and good governance.
Throughout his journalism career, Serwanjja has produced several influential investigative documentaries, including " The Ghosts of Ntungamo Documentary " and " Stealing from the Sick - BBC Africa Eye Documentary, " among others, His investigations exposed alleged corruption, abuse of office and the misuse of public resources, prompting action by government agencies and contributing to greater accountability.
His election has attracted public attention, with many observers viewing it as an opportunity to see how his experience in investigative journalism will translate into grassroots leadership.
Serwanjja has pledged to serve the people of Bamutakudde Village with integrity, transparency and accountability while continuing to use journalism as a tool to advance the public interest.