KAMPALA
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has reclaimed the Kawempe North parliamentary seat after its candidate, Elias Nalukoola Luyimbazi emerged victorious in a tightly contested by-election.
According to official results released by the Kampala City Electoral Commission, Nalukoola secured 17,764 votes, defeating his closest rival, Faridah Kigongo Namabi of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who garnered 8,593 votes. The Independent candidate – NRM leaning, Murerwa Hanifah Karadi came third with 381 votes.
The by-election, held on March 13, 2025, was conducted following the demise of former legislator, late Muhammad Ssegirinya, who passed away in January.
Election Breakdown
Henry Nakabayi, the returning officer for Kawempe North said a total number of valid votes cast was 27,596, while 406 votes were rejected. The total number of ballot papers counted was 28,002, with 49 spoilt ballots recorded.
Among the other candidates, Henry Mubiru Kasacca of the Democratic Party (DP) secured 100 votes, while independent candidates Luwemba Lusswa Muhammad (240 votes), Mutazindwa Muhammad (186 votes), Engena-Maitum Edward (22 votes), Nsereko Moses (32 votes), and Musitwa Ismail of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) (39 votes) trailed behind. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) candidate, Mukiibi Sadat (FDC) garnered 239 votes.
The results were announced on Wednesday night at Makerere University School of Public Health Auditorium. Nalukoola expressed gratitude to the people of Kawempe North for their overwhelming support. He promised to continue advocating for better governance, service delivery, and youth empowerment in the constituency.
“This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to the people of Kawempe North and the entire NUP fraternity. I pledge to serve diligently and carry forward the vision of our late comrade, Muhammad Ssegirinya,” Nalukoola said.
The election was marked by heightened security and reports of electoral irregularities, including allegations of voter intimidation and vote-buying. However, the Electoral Commission assured the public that the process was conducted fairly and transparently.
With this win, NUP solidifies its stronghold in Kawempe North, reaffirming its influence in Kampala politics ahead of the 2026 general elections.
