Gold Ikyiriza, Diana Ampaire Lead UG Diplomat Online Poll as Race for National Female Youth MP Seat Heats Up

In a hotly contested online opinion poll conducted by UG Diplomat, youth leaders and voters from across Uganda threw their weight behind who they think should represent them as favorite candidates for the National Female Youth Member of Parliament (MP) seat if polls were held today. The popular poll, which attracted over 1,000 participants, revealed a tight race between Gold Ikyiriza and Diana Ampaire Kampe, with Mercy Kanyeisigye and Siyemah Atukunda trailing behind but still commanding distinct constituencies of support.

This digital poll—the first of many to be organized by UG Diplomat in the run-up to youth parliamentary and general elections—reflects growing engagement among Uganda’s politically aware youth and signals the influence of digital platforms in shaping early narratives.

Poll Results (as of 15:52 EAT):

• Gold Ikyiriza – 423 votes

• Diana Ampaire – 406 votes

• Mercy Kanyeisigye – 240 votes

• Siyemah Atukunda – 34 votes

The margin separating Ikyiriza and Ampaire was razor-thin, projecting a competitive and energized youth electorate. Notably, a wide cross-section of participants—from university delegates to district youth councilors—took part in the poll, making it a credible early snapshot of candidate visibility and momentum.

A Window into the Youth Political Climate

While online opinion polls do not necessarily predict the final outcome of an election, they remain a valuable tool for gauging public sentiment, candidate popularity, and levels of engagement. The UG Diplomat poll offered a platform for youth across regions and affiliations to express their early preferences, highlight the candidates they believe represent their interests, and ignite important conversations around leadership, service, and representation.

This poll also demonstrated the growing role of social media and digital tools in shaping Uganda’s political processes—especially among the youth, who form the bulk of the voting population. For candidates, it serves as a call to deepen their engagement beyond digital popularity and translate online visibility into grassroots mobilization and policy-driven messaging.

UG Diplomat will continue to use such interactive tools to promote civic awareness and support informed decision-making in the lead-up to the National Youth Council elections in addition to other positions in the run up to next year’s general elections.

Candidate Profiles

Gold Ikyiriza – A former Vice President of the Uganda National Students’ Association (UNSA), Gold has built a reputation as a formidable student leader and youth advocate. With a track record of mobilization, inclusivity, and clarity of vision, she enjoys significant support from university constituencies and organized youth structures.

Diana Ampaire Kampe – A rapidly rising figure, Ampaire has surprised many with her grassroots appeal, especially in Western Uganda. Though relatively new to the national political scene, her messaging and style have resonated with many female youth voters looking for authentic and relatable leadership.

Mercy Kanyeisigye – Known for her articulate voice on gender equity and youth empowerment, Kanyeisigye commands support among young professionals and civil society activists. Her campaign is anchored on thought leadership and policy clarity.

Siyemah Atukunda – With rich experience at both national and district youth levels, Siyemah’s focus on empowering vulnerable communities and promoting inclusive leadership continues to resonate at the grassroots level. Despite receiving fewer votes in this particular poll, her real-world fieldwork could be a key factor as the race progresses.

As the momentum builds toward the nomination and election phases, UG Diplomat will continue offering insightful analysis, candidate spotlights, and more polls to elevate youth voices in shaping the country’s political future.