Kampala District Returning Officer Henry Makabayi has confirmed that over 13 candidates have registered with the Electoral Commission (EC) to contest in the highly anticipated Kawempe North MP by-election, scheduled for March 13.
The nomination process which kicked off today, February 26 will run until tomorrow, February 27 setting the stage for a fierce political battle in one of Uganda’s most politically active constituencies.
The by-election comes in the wake of political competition following the death of former MP Muhammad Ssegirinya of the National Unity Platform (NUP) whose term was characterised by legal battles and health complications.
With the race now officially on, a number of candidates including NUP hopefuls, independent contenders, and NRM ruling party aspirants, are gearing up to battle for the seat in a contest that could redefine political dynamics in the Kawempe.
Kawempe North has long been a stronghold for the opposition particularly the National Unity Platform which dominated the 2021 general elections in Kampala. However, with a crowded field of 13 contenders, the by-election presents a test of political influence for all major parties.
Among the key contenders is Ssegirinya’s replacement within NUP Lawyer Nalukola Elias whose nomination could solidify the party’s grip or expose cracks within its ranks.
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), often struggling for relevance in Kampala, is also fielding a candidate in a bid to challenge opposition dominance.
Meanwhile, independent candidates, some of whom have defected from major political parties, hope to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction and shifting allegiances.
This by-election is not just about electing a new MP, it’s a political battleground that could influence Uganda’s broader opposition and ruling party strategies.
With the 2026 general elections looming, both NUP and NRM see Kawempe North as a crucial testing ground for their organizational strength and voter appeal.
For NUP, retaining the seat would reaffirm their dominance in Kampala, especially after the controversies surrounding Ssegirinya’s term.
For NRM, a surprise victory would indicate a potential shift in voter sentiment within opposition territory.
With only a day to go before the nomination window closes, the candidates are making last minute maneuvers to solidify their positions.
