Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, has emerged victorious in the Kawempe North parliamentary by-election, securing a landslide win with 17,764 votes. His victory fills the seat left vacant by the passing of former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya.
The Electoral Commission officially declared Nalukoola the winner, with his closest competitor, Nambi Faridah Kigongo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), receiving 8,593 votes. Other candidates in the race included:
1. Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola (NUP) – 17,764 votes
2. Namabi Faridah Kigongo (NRM) – 8,593 votes
3. Hanifah Karadi Murerwa (Independent) – 381 votes
4. Sadat Mukiibi (FDC) – 239 votes
5. Henry Mubiru Kasacca (DP) – 100 votes
The tallying of votes and announcement of results took place at Makerere University, which served as the election’s official tally center.
While voting proceeded without major disruptions, the election process was overshadowed by reports of harassment, intimidation, and violence by security forces.
Journalists covering the by-election were subjected to physical attacks, arrests, and confiscation of equipment, while opposition supporters faced a heavy security presence in Kawempe North.
Eyewitnesses reported that police and military personnel were strategically stationed near polling centers and the tallying venue, resulting in the detention of several NUP supporters.
Human rights organizations and opposition leaders condemned the crackdown on media and political activists, calling it an assault on democratic freedoms.
Nalukoola’s win further cements NUP’s dominance in Kampala, where the party, led by Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), has consistently outperformed the ruling NRM in urban elections.
In his victory speech, Nalukoola dedicated his success to the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, vowing to continue his legacy and fight for justice.
“This victory belongs to the people of Kawempe North and the late Hon. Ssegirinya, who gave everything for this community. I will stand firm against oppression and work tirelessly to improve the lives of our people,” Nalukoola declared.
Despite the heightened political activity, voter turnout remained moderate. Out of 28,002 ballots issued, only 27,596 were deemed valid, with 406 ballots rejected and 49 spoiled.
The Returning Officer, Henry Makabayi, officially confirmed Nalukoola’s win, stating that he had received the highest number of votes in line with the Parliamentary Elections Act.
As Nalukoola takes up his new role, the focus now shifts to how he will navigate the political landscape and address the pressing issues affecting Kawempe North.
