The National Unity Platform (NUP) has officially declared lawyer Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola as the party’s flag bearer for the upcoming Kawempe North by-election.
Addressing supporters at the NUP headquarters in Makerere Kavule, Kampala, Nalukoola expressed gratitude to the party for endorsing him.
“I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to NUP for blessing me to be the party flag bearer for the Kawempe North MP seat. I am a loyal member of the National Unity Platform whose affiliation should not be put to the question,” he stated.
The former member of the Democratic Party (DP) emerged victorious in a competitive selection process that saw him beat nine other aspirants; Umar Magala, Muhammad Lusswa Luwemba, Mathias Mulumba, Moses Nsereko, Salim Sserunkuuma, Fredrick Kakika, Charles Rubagumya, Kenneth Ssekungu, and Saul Kulya Zziwa.
According to Mercy Walukaba, Chairperson of NUP’s Election Management Committee (EMC), Nalukoola secured a 71 percent score in the selection process. The committee based its evaluation on multiple factors, with vetting contributing 40 percent, debate performance 10 percent, and ground visibility and mobilisation accounting for 50 percent.
The Kawempe North seat fell vacant following the passing of former NUP MP Muhammad Ssegirinya last month. With the by-election set for March 13, Nalukoola is expected to face stiff competition from candidates representing other political parties.