By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
As the Kawempe North Member of Parliament by-election draws closer, various political parties have declared their flag bearers, while speculation continues about potential independent candidates.
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) recently endorsed Hajjati Faridah Nambi as its candidate. Meanwhile, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has backed local musician Sadat Mukiibi, popularly known as Khalifah Aganaga, and on Tuesday, the National Unity Platform (NUP) named city lawyer Counsel Nalukoola Luyimbazi as its candidate to replace former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, who passed away at Rubaga Hospital on January 9.
Other parties, such as the Democratic Party (DP), have already called for expressions of interest from members interested in contesting for this seat.
However, for the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), the process of fielding a candidate remains a challenge. The party is struggling to identify a suitable contender to carry its flag.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, UPC spokesperson Sharon Oyat Arach admitted that the party has not yet found an interested candidate.
“Unfortunately, we have not received any individuals willing to contest in this by-election. As of now, UPC does not have a candidate who has been gazetted to stand for the position,” Arach said.
She emphasized that the party does not handpick candidates and is waiting for its structures in Kawempe to propose a name.
“Between now and the next announcement, if we get a candidate, we shall definitely let you know,” she added.
Last month, the Electoral Commission (EC) released the roadmap for the Kawempe North by-election, which will also include the election of a Division Councillor for Kazo-Angola Ward.
According to the EC, the nomination of candidates will take place at the office of the Assistant Returning Officer, Kawempe Division, on Wednesday, February 26, and Thursday, February 27, 2025. The inspection of nomination papers and lodging of official complaints will follow from Thursday, February 27, to Wednesday, March 5, 2025.
Candidates will be allowed to conduct campaign meetings from Friday, February 28, to Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Polling dates for the by-election is scheduled for Thursday, March 13, 2025.
