The race for Kampala’s parliamentary seats has officially begun, with a colourful and dramatic start to the nomination exercise for the 2026 general elections.
The two-day process, which began Wednesday at the Electoral Commission (EC) offices in Ntinda’s Minister’s Village, drew dozens of aspirants, both party flag bearers and independents, all eager to represent the city’s five divisions in the next Parliament.
Security was visibly tight as police barricaded all routes leading to the nomination centre, allowing entry only to candidates, their 10-member entourages, and local residents.
Beyond the barricades, drums, chants, and songs from supporters created a carnival-like atmosphere as hopefuls arrived in party colours, suits, and traditional busuti (gomesi).
The exercise kicked off at exactly 9:00am.
Mohammad Nsubuga, was the first candidate nominated for Kawempe South as an independent, as he was cheered on by supporters calling him “Commander”.
Nsubuga went independent after he was denied a party card.
He will face a tough field that includes Fred Nyanzi, elder brother to NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), as well as independents Muhammad Ssenyonga and Edirisa Tenywa.
Nyanzi pledged to restore effective representation.
In Nakawa East, veteran politician and former Attorney General Fredrick Ruhindi (NRM) also returned to the race. He was among those duly nominated.
He will battle Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro (NUP), Moses Okwera (FDC), Winfred Nakandi (Democratic Front), Kirabo Gasagwa, Dr. Acer Okot, and Charles Ronnie Keeno, all independents.
NUP’s Mufumbiro was nominated in absentia.
His documents were presented by his wife Edith Katende Mufumbiro, outgoing Nakawa East MP Eng. Ronald Balimwezo, and others.
Mufumbiro’s wife fought back tears of gratitude after his nomination was confirmed, calling it “a step of faith and victory.”
Embattled outgoing Makindye West, Allan Ssewanyana, also got nominated top reclaim his seat, he will be battling off with NUP’s Zahara Luyirika, and Doreen Kaita Kagabi (NRM) among others.
The battle line has been drawn again in Kawempe North, as NRM’s Faridah Nambi Kigongo once again faces off NUP’s Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola.
In Nakawa West, incumbent Joel Ssenyonyi (NUP) was nominated to defend his seat, as NUP Secretary-General David Lewis Lubongoya was confirmed to contest for Kampala Central, and will be facing off NRM’s Kabanda in the same race.
NUP’s Shamim Malende and Shamim Nanfuma, and independent Diana Kitonsa were nominated for Kampala Woman MP among others.
