National unity platform’s candidate Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola has secured a victory in the Kawempe Division North parliamentary by-election, replacing the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, who passed away earlier this year.
According to Henry Nakabayi, the returning officer for Kawempe North, Nalukoola collected 17,764 votes, far ahead of his nearest competitor, National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Nambi Faridah Kigongo, who received 8,593 votes.
The by-election, held yesterday 13th March 2025, saw a total of 27,596 valid votes cast.
Nalukoola’s victory is seen as a boost to NUP’s parliamentary presence ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Nalukoola is expected to be sworn in soon, continuing the legacy of Ssegirinya, who was known for his advocacy on social welfare issues.
Other candidates
Henry Mubiru Kasacca of the Democratic Party (DP) secured 100 votes, while independent candidates Luwemba Lusswa Muhammad (240 votes), Mutazindwa Muhammad (186 votes), Engena-Maitum Edward (22 votes), Nsereko Moses (32 votes), and Musitwa Ismail of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) (39 votes) trailed behind. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) candidate, Mukiibi Sadat (FDC) garnered 239 votes.
Speaking at the Makerere University School of Public Health Auditorium, Mr. Nakabayi declared Nalukoola the duly elected Member of Parliament for Kawempe Division North under Section 77(1) of the Parliamentary Elections Act.
The seat fell vacant following the death of Ssegirinya, a vocal opposition MP and NUP member, who succumbed to illness earlier this year. His passing was widely mourned, with tributes pouring in from across Uganda’s political spectrum.
The by-election was closely watched amid rising political tensions, but the Electoral Commission reported a peaceful voting process despite minor logistical challenges.
