After two intense weeks of campaigning for the Kawempe North seat, the time has come to distinguish the true contenders from the pretenders.
The election process has been overshadowed by violence, with members of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party frequently clashing with armed individuals, reportedly linked to the Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force (JATT) of the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI).
As the saying goes, it’s only a matter of time, and that moment is now for Ugandans to know the real men.
The by-election, prompted by the untimely passing of Muhammad Segirinya, is scheduled for Thursday, March 13, 2025.
On Wednesday, President Yoweri Museveni, leader of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), visited the area to support their candidate, Faridah Nambi.
Meanwhile on the other side, the president of the NUP Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine was also present, rallying support for their candidate, Counsel Erias Nalukoola.
The political landscape indicates that the two leading candidates are the most formidable contenders in the race, but the question remains: who enjoys greater popularity?
In the contest, we also have several other candidates: Sadat Mukiibi, widely recognized as Aganaga, who represents the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party; Henry Kasacca from the Democratic Party (DP); and Ismail Musitwa of the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP).
Additionally, there are also independents such as Hanifa Karadi Mutazindwa, Muhhamad Lusswa Luwemba, Moses Nsereko, and Henry Stanely Maitun.
Observing the turnout for various candidates during the campaign period, it appears that Nalukoola holds a slight advantage over his nearest rival from the NRM.
This advantage likely stems from his affiliation with the same party as the late MP, Ssegirinya.
Analysts have noted that Nalukoola’s momentum was also bolstered when security forces confronted him and his supporters shortly after his nomination, just before their inaugural rally.
He was treated harshly, with his shirt ripped, which only deepened the sympathy felt by voters and the wider public.
This incident also drew condemnation from NRM supporters and officials, as well as from other candidates in the race. Analysts have confidently declared this ticket a definite winner.
While Nambi may present a more polished image, her chances of winning in Kawempe—a historically opposition-leaning area—seem slim.
This election is crucial for the NUP to assert its strength and influence in the Central Region, particularly in Buganda, where they have a significant following and representation at the Parliamentary level.
Conversely, a victory for the NRM would be pivotal, especially after years of setbacks in Kampala and Buganda.
