Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola of the National Unity Platform (NUP) has emerged victorious in the hotly contested Kawempe Division North by-election, securing a commanding lead with 17,764 votes.
According to official results announced by the Returning Officer, Makabayi Henry, at Makerere University School of Public Health Auditorium, Nalukoola defeated his closest rival, Namabi Faridah Kigongo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who garnered 8,593 votes.
The election saw a total of 27,596 valid votes cast, with 406 rejected ballots and 49 spoilt ballot papers.
Other candidates in the race included Kasacca Henry Mubiru (DP) with 100 votes, Mukiibi Sadat (FDC) with 239 votes, and independent candidates such as Luwemba Lusswa Muhammad (240 votes), Murerwa Hanifah Karadi (381 votes), and Mutazindwa Muhamood (186 votes).
The lowest votes went to Engena-Maitum Edward (22 votes) and Nsereko Moses (32 votes), both running as independents.
The by-election was conducted in accordance with the Parliamentary Elections Act, following the vacancy in the constituency resulting from the death of former NUP member Hon Muhammad Ssegirinya.
Speaking after the announcement, Nalukoola expressed gratitude to his supporters and pledged to serve the people of Kawempe North with dedication.
“This victory belongs to the people. I will work tirelessly to address the issues affecting our community and ensure that their voices are heard in Parliament,” he said.
He added: “To all change-seeking Ugandans, Ours is not an ordinary victory. It’s a testament to what people power means. Thank you for standing bravely against brutality, abductions, and the like.”
Political analysts noted that the result reflects the growing influence of NUP in urban constituencies.
With the election concluded, attention now shifts to Nalukoola’s agenda and how he plans to implement his campaign promises in the coming months.
