EC Nominates 18 Candidates for Kawempe North By-Elections

The Uganda Electoral Commission has officially concluded the nomination process for the Parliamentary and Local Government Council By-elections in Kawempe Division North Constituency, Kampala Capital City, with a total of 18 candidates successfully nominated across the two categories.

The nominations, which began on February 26, 2025, were held at the Office of the Assistant District Election Administrator in Kawempe Division.

Parliamentary Candidates for Kawempe North

A total of 10 candidates were nominated to contest for the Member of Parliament seat for Kawempe North Constituency. The nominations reflect a broad range of political affiliations, with Independents making a strong showing.

The following candidates have been officially nominated: Mukibii Sadat (FDC), Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola (NUP), Luwemba Lusswa Muhammad (Independent), Murerwa Hanifah Karadi (Independent), Nsereko Moses – Independent (Chair symbol), Musiiitwa Ismail (PPP), Kasacca Henry Mubiru (DP), Nambi Faridah Kigongo (NRM), Mutazindwa Muhamood (Independent (Bicycle symbol) and Engena Maitum Edward Stanley (Independent).

Notably, Independent candidates dominate the race with 5 nominees, accounting for 50% of the total candidates. The major political parties, including FDC, NUP, NRM, DP, and PPP, are also represented, with each fielding one candidate for the parliamentary seat.

Local Government Council Candidates

The by-elections also feature a competitive race for the Subcounty Directly Elected Councillor (SCEC) position in the Kazo-Angola Ward.

The following candidates have been nominated for this position: Ssetuba Habibah (NUP), Birimumaiso David Muwanguzi (Independent), Ssebuuma Bills Robert (Independent), Sebunya Sharif (FDC), Ssebuggwa Tadeo (DP), Ssemata Lawrence Masuuti (NRM), Yiga Musa Ngobya (Independent) and Mulinda Hussein (Independent).

Similarly to the MP race, Independent candidates lead with 4 nominations, making up 50% of the SCEC candidates.

Political parties FDC, NUP, NRM, and DP have also presented candidates, while other parties such as UPC and JEEMA are absent from the race, hinting at a possible shift in the political landscape within the constituency.

Political Party Representation and Insights

In an analysis of the nominations, the strong presence of Independent candidates in both races stands out. With 50% of both the MP and SCEC races dominated by Independents, this could signal a level of dissatisfaction with traditional party structures or a growing trend of self-sufficient political candidates.

The traditional powerhouses, including NUP and NRM, have notable representation. NUP, typically dominant in Kampala, has only one candidate each for the MP and SCEC seats, which may be seen as underperformance given the urban influence of the party. NRM, which traditionally struggles in Kampala, has been able to secure a presence in both categories.

The absence of notable parties like UPC and JEEMA may indicate shifting political alliances or a decrease in their influence in the region, further altering the dynamics in Kawempe North.

The Electoral Commission reminded all nominated candidates to adhere to the established guidelines throughout the campaign period as they prepare to engage voters in the upcoming elections.