In recent days, the Ugandan political scene has been rocked by a scandal involving Hon. Elizabeth Kakwanzi, a woman representative and rising figure in local politics. A private and highly explicit video leaked online, showing her in a compromising state, seemingly under the influence or in a moment of lowered inhibition. The footage, which rapidly spread across social media platforms, triggered outrage, confusion, speculation—and even support—from various corners of society. But the biggest question remains: Did she leak the video herself? And if so, why?
The video, which appears to have been recorded on a mobile phone, shows Hon. Kakwanzi alone in a private setting. She is seen exposing herself in ways that are both unexpected and difficult to explain from a public figure, let alone a sitting member of Parliament. There is no visible sign that the video was being shot secretly; in fact, it looks like she was fully aware of the camera. This has fueled speculation that the video may not have been “leaked” by a third party, but perhaps shared—intentionally or unintentionally—by the honorable member herself.
Some observers noted that she appeared disoriented in the footage, possibly intoxicated. But others were quick to point out that there was no clear evidence of alcohol or substance abuse—only assumptions based on her actions and body language.
Was It a Publicity Stunt?
As the video gained traction, many began to question whether Hon. Kakwanzi or someone in her circle released the video to gain public attention ahead of the 2026 elections.
In Ugandan politics, where visibility can often translate into power, some believe the leak was strategic.
“She wants to trend. It’s election season soon, and controversy sells,” one Twitter user posted. Another added, “We’ve seen musicians do it. Now politicians are learning the trick too.”
Such accusations might sound extreme, but history shows that scandals can catapult a relatively quiet public figure into the national spotlight. Whether positive or negative, visibility is a powerful currency in the age of viral media. However, it’s a dangerous game, especially when dignity and public trust are at stake.
As expected, the video split opinions across Ugandan social media. On Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook, hashtags like #KakwanziLeak, #MPGoneWild, and #RespectWomenLeaders began trending.
“We should not crucify her. Everyone makes mistakes. The same people judging her are hiding worse secrets,” posted a Facebook user named Joan K.
On the flip side, a comment on X (formerly Twitter) read:
“This is not what we expect from our leaders. Hon. Kakwanzi should resign immediately. She has disgraced the nation.”
Others were more investigative than judgmental:
“That video doesn’t feel like a mistake. It looks planned. Her body language was not of someone caught off guard,” said @MukasaReports, a popular online commentator.
Supporters of Kakwanzi have called out what they describe as a double standard. When male politicians get caught in sex-related scandals, they often get away with a slap on the wrist or even sympathy. However, when it’s a woman, the backlash is often ten times more severe.
“Uganda is a patriarchal society. If this were a man, we’d be laughing. But because she’s a woman, people are calling for her head,” posted media analyst Sharon Kirabo on Instagram.
Alcohol or Mental Health Crisis?
Speculation continues about whether alcohol played a role in the incident. Some viewers believe her actions could be attributed to being drunk or under the influence of substances. A few others have suggested the possibility of a mental health breakdown.
“That wasn’t alcohol. That was someone crying for help. We ignore mental health until it’s too late,” wrote one concerned citizen on Reddit Uganda.
These sentiments highlight an often-ignored part of public life: the intense pressure politicians face. Constant scrutiny, stress from constituents, family strain, and political competition can weigh heavily on public officials. If this was indeed a mental health crisis, then the video leak should be a wake-up call, not just a scandal.
Was It AI-Generated? The Fake Video Theory
Another angle being explored, especially by Hon. Kakwanzi’s supporters, is the possibility of AI manipulation. With the rise of deepfake technologies, it is now possible to convincingly fake videos that look completely real.
“She is innocent. This is AI trying to destroy her image. They are targeting women in politics with these fake videos,” claimed a user on a WhatsApp group circulating Kakwanzi’s press photo alongside deepfake examples.
While no evidence yet confirms that the video was AI-generated, it’s not an impossible theory. Several other public figures around the world have fallen victim to digitally manipulated content meant to defame or embarrass them.
As of now, Hon. Kakwanzi has not released a formal public statement. Her silence has only fueled more speculation. Some say she is consulting legal counsel. Others suggest her team is preparing a damage-control strategy to rehabilitate her image.
Several women’s rights groups have stepped forward to demand a fair and balanced response.
“We urge the public and media to handle this matter with sensitivity. Whether or not Hon. Kakwanzi made a mistake, she is still a human being deserving of dignity,” stated a representative from the Uganda Women’s Parliamentary Association (UWOPA).
Meanwhile, rumors continue to swirl. Will she resign? Will Parliament open an ethics investigation? Or will the country move on to the next trending controversy and forget it ever happened?
This incident involving Hon. Elizabeth Kakwanzi isn’t just about a leaked video—it’s about politics, gender, morality, media culture, and how society treats those in power. Whether this was a personal mistake, a strategic leak, or a malicious act by her enemies, the reactions reveal more about us than her.
Until official investigations or statements are released, much of what is being discussed remains speculation. But one thing is clear: Uganda—and the world—needs to have deeper conversations about privacy, mental health, and the ethical use of digital tools in public discourse.