KAMPALA
Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) President Eng. Patrick Oboi Amuriat has lauded the victory of Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, in the Kawempe North by-election. Amuriat commended the resilience of the electorate in overcoming alleged attempts by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to influence the election outcome through military intervention and rigging.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Amuriat congratulated the people of Kawempe North and criticized the NRM for actions he described as reckless, resulting in injuries to citizens and journalists.
“No military force nor massive rigging would stop @NUP_Ug @EliasNalukoola. Congratulations the people of Kawempe North for the great win. @NRMOnline must be held accountable for the reckless behavior, causing injuries on citizens and journalists. Clearly, it is possible to confuse and defeat guns so long as there is a will by the people. MP-elect should count and attend to the many injured brave fighters,” Amuriat posted.
The Kawempe North by-election, held on March 13, 2025, was conducted amidst a heavy security presence. Reports indicate that violent confrontations occurred between security forces and opposition supporters, leading to injuries among civilians and members of the press. Human rights activists and journalist associations have condemned the excessive use of force and are calling for accountability.
In response to the violence, several media organizations have announced a blackout on reporting activities related to Uganda’s security agencies. This unprecedented move aims to protest the harassment, beatings, and destruction of equipment experienced by journalists during the electoral process.
According to official results announced by the Electoral Commission, Nalukoola secured 17,764 votes, defeating his closest rival, Faridah Nambi of the NRM, who received 8,593 votes. Other candidates in the race included Hanifah Karadi Murerwa (Independent), Sadat Mukiibi aka Kalifa Aganaga (FDC), and Henry Mubiru Kasacca (DP).
Despite fielding its own candidate, the FDC, led by Amuriat, extended congratulations to the NUP and Nalukoola, emphasizing the collective struggle against electoral malpractice and the importance of unity among opposition forces.
The by-election was necessitated by the death of the former MP, Muhammad Ssegirinya, in January 2025. Nalukoola, a seasoned lawyer and human rights advocate, is expected to bring his extensive legal expertise and commitment to social justice to his new role as the representative of Kawempe North.
As the newly elected MP prepares to assume office, there are heightened calls from various stakeholders for thorough investigations into the electoral violence and for measures to ensure the safety and freedom of the press in Uganda.
