The National Unity Platform (NUP) has officially named Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola as its candidate for the upcoming Kawempe North parliamentary by-election. The party’s electoral commission, based in Makerere Kavule, confirmed his selection following a highly competitive internal vetting process.
Nalukoola, a seasoned lawyer and human rights activist, is set to contest for the seat left vacant after the passing of former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya on January 8, 2025. His selection comes after a rigorous contest against several other aspirants, including Luwemba Lusswa Muhammad, Umar Magara, Saulo Kulya Zziwa, Serunkuuma Salim (also known as Mafu Mafu), Kakyika Fredrick, Dr. Charles Rubagumya, Eng. Ssenkungu Kenneth, Mathias Mulumba, and Moses Nsereko.
Previously serving as the Democratic Party’s (DP) national legal advisor, Nalukoola resigned in October 2024, citing dissatisfaction with a cooperation agreement between DP and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). He argued that the agreement was made without proper consultation, raising ethical and procedural concerns. Following his resignation, he aligned himself with NUP, a move that sparked internal debate within the party about endorsing a relatively new member.
Nalukoola has pledged to tackle the critical issues affecting Kawempe North, including unemployment, poverty, and inadequate healthcare services. His manifesto focuses on youth empowerment through skills development in sports, music, catering, craft-making, and tailoring. Additionally, he has vowed to use his legal expertise to advocate for transparency in the allocation of government resources, particularly in infrastructure and public health.
The Electoral Commission has confirmed that the by-election will take place within 60 days, as mandated by the constitution. With various candidates preparing to launch their campaigns, the political atmosphere in Kawempe North is expected to be highly charged.
NUP’s endorsement of Nalukoola was announced in a gathering attended by the party’s top leadership, including President Robert Kyagulanyi, Secretary General Louis Rubongoya, and other deputy party presidents. As the campaign season heats up, Nalukoola and other contenders will be working to win the support of the electorate, each offering their vision for the future of Kawempe North.