Milly Babirye Babalanda was elected to represent Budiope West Constituency in Buyende District, Uganda, in January 2026, adding a parliamentary role to her position as Minister of the Presidency. Her victory follows a career marked by political mobilization within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and a steady ascent through government ranks.
Born on December 5, 1970, in Nalinaibi Village, Kamuli District, Babalanda’s early life was characterized by the challenges of rural Uganda, as detailed in reports from Watchdog Uganda and Flash Uganda News. She is the daughter of Sosani Magunda and the late Namuwaya Ruth. She completed her Primary Leaving Examinations in 1985 and attended Busoga High School, though her initial performance in Senior Four in 1989 was not strong, according to biographical information available on Wikipedia.
Babalanda’s entry into politics began as a local mobilizer for politicians including Rebecca Kadaga, then a sub-county representative. She later pursued further education, re-sitting her Senior Four examinations in 2017 and completing her A-levels in 2019, driven by the academic requirements for a Senior Presidential Advisor role, as noted by Wikipedia.
Her formal government service commenced in 2014 with an appointment as Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) in Busia District. She subsequently joined the NRM National Chairman’s Office, headed by Molly Nawe Kamukama, and later assumed leadership of the office in 2016 when Kamukama was appointed Minister. This period saw her become a key figure in mobilizing support for President Yoweri Museveni, culminating in her appointment as Minister of the Presidency in June 2021.
As Minister of the Presidency, Babalanda has focused on accountability and oversight of Resident District Commissioners across Uganda. Her approach, described as disciplined, has reportedly faced resistance from those seeking to maintain the status quo. In September 2023, she received an award from UNAIDS for her contribution to the fight against HIV/AIDS in Uganda, highlighting a broader commitment to public health initiatives.
President Museveni has publicly praised Babalanda’s dedication and loyalty, describing her as a “humble village girl who has risen through the ranks,” according to reports. This endorsement has solidified her position within the NRM, despite internal party rivalries and scrutiny of her background. She has consistently emphasized her commitment to serving the people of Uganda and the principles of the NRM.
Babalanda’s election to Parliament represents a recent phase in her political career, allowing her to directly represent the constituents of Budiope West. Her ability to navigate political challenges and maintain the confidence of President Museveni will likely be central to her continued influence within the Ugandan government.
